Common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and difficulty concentrating.
The symptoms often improve when the person leaves the building, but the exact trigger cant always be pinpointed.
Several factors contribute to SBS, including lack of windows, exposure to mold and chemicals, andworkplace stress.
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Addressing any physical or psychological factors that could affect one’s well-being is also important.
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What Is Sick Building Syndrome?
SBS is typically seen in enclosed buildings, where air quality and ventilation is often compromised.
People who spend long periods in these buildings are more likely to experience SBS.
The symptoms usually improve when the person leaves the building, indicating a connection to the environment.
Contributing risk factors include greater chemical sensitivity, lower cold tolerance, and hormonal differences.
Social roles may also expose them to more SBS triggers, such as increased exposure to cleaning products.
What Mold Causes Sick Building Syndrome?
A group of molds calledFusariumproduce toxins that can be harmful to health and are closely linked to SBS.
Fusarium molds vary in color but can be pink, red, white, or yellow.
These molds grow in water-damaged and poorly ventilated buildings.
What Are Building-Related Symptoms?
Building-related symptoms can include:
In most cases, building-related symptoms get better shortly after leaving the building.
However, the effects of toxicity, particularly to fumes and chemicals, may linger for some time after.
How Is SBS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing sick building syndrome can be challenging because its symptoms are nonspecific and may overlap with other health conditions.
There is no specific test for SBS.
Since symptoms typically develop in a specific building, tracking when symptoms appear can help identify a potential link.
How to Get Rid of Sick Building Syndrome
There are no medical treatments for building-related symptoms.
Some people may also experience shortness of breath, difficulty concentrating, and malaise.
If you experience building-related symptoms but are unsure of what’s causing them, see a healthcare provider.
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