Don’t Let Your Home Make You Sick: Symptoms That Might Be Linked to Indoor Air Quality

Jun 16

2 min read

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You eat healthy. You stay active. You go to the doctor when something feels off. But what if the cause of your fatigue, brain fog, or constant congestion isn’t something you’re doing—…it’s something you’re breathing?

In Houston’s hot and humid climate, homes can quietly trap pollutants, allergens, and moisture that affect how you feel every day. The truth is, many health symptoms that seem vague or unexplainable may be linked to poor indoor air quality (IAQ).

Common Symptoms of Poor Indoor Air Quality

You might not see the problem, but your body can sense it. Watch for these symptoms that may indicate air-related issues in your home:

Fatigue or brain fog that improves when you leave the house
Headaches, especially in the morning or after waking up
Nasal congestion, sinus pressure, or frequent sneezing
Dry eyes, sore throat, or persistent coughing
Skin irritation or unexplained rashes
Worsening asthma or allergy symptoms indoors

If you consistently feel better away from home—at work, on vacation, or even running errands—it could be your home environment triggering these problems.

What’s Lurking in Your Air?

You might be surprised at what can affect indoor air—even in a clean-looking house:

Mold spores from hidden leaks, damp areas, or poorly ventilated bathrooms
Dust mites living in bedding, carpet, and upholstery
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from cleaning products, paint, furniture, and flooring
Pet dander and hair—even if you’re not allergic
Outdoor pollutants that get trapped inside once the house is sealed for summer

In Houston, high humidity makes all of this worse. Moisture not only feeds mold but also prevents your home from "clearing out" airborne irritants effectively.

When to Be Concerned

You don’t need to panic over every sneeze—but if you or your family experience:

Persistent symptoms with no medical explanation
A noticeable difference in how you feel inside vs. outside the home
Recent water damage or HVAC issues
Lingering odors or musty smells
An older home or recent renovations

…it may be time to test your indoor air quality.

What You Can Do

Run a dehumidifier in damp areas (target 45–55% humidity)
Ventilate bathrooms and kitchens properly
Change HVAC filters regularly (every 1–3 months)
Choose low-VOC cleaning products and paints
Avoid scented sprays or candles that mask odors instead of solving them

But the most effective step is a professional indoor air quality assessment. This takes the guesswork out and provides real data about what you're breathing.

Final Thought

When your home’s air isn’t healthy, it’s hard to be your best—physically or mentally. If you’re feeling "off" and can’t figure out why, it may be time to stop guessing and start testing.