Is Your Home or Office Making You Sick? What You Need to Know About Sick Building Syndrome
Have you been feeling tired, foggy, or unwell — but can’t figure out why?
The answer might not be in your body, but in the building you’re spending time in.
This condition is known as Sick Building Syndrome (SBS).
First identified by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1983, SBS describes a collection of symptoms that appear to be linked to time spent inside certain homes or workplaces — even when no specific illness can be identified.
🚨 Common Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome:
Fatigue and body aches
Headaches or dizziness
Dry, itchy eyes or throat
Skin rashes or irritation
Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
Poor sleep, anxiety, or low mood
Respiratory issues, like coughing or shortness of breath
🏠 What Causes Sick Building Syndrome?
SBS can stem from a mix of environmental factors within a building. Some of the most common include:
Mold and mildew in damp, poorly ventilated areas
Chemical exposure from cleaning products, furniture, paint, or pesticides
Poor indoor air quality and limited fresh airflow
Unbalanced humidity—too dry or too humid environments can irritate skin, sinuses, and lungs
Dirty HVAC systems collecting dust, mold, or allergens
Noise pollution, which contributes to stress, fatigue, and even cardiovascular strain
Harsh or insufficient lighting, especially a lack of natural sunlight
✅ Short-Term Fixes You Can Try Today:
Increase ventilation by opening windows or using air purifiers
Switch to low-toxicity, natural cleaning products
Add air-purifying houseplants like aloe vera, spider plant, or English ivy
Use humidifiers or dehumidifiers to balance indoor moisture levels
Try noise-cancelling headphones in high-noise environments
Maximize natural light and consider switching to softer, more natural artificial lighting
🧭 When to Consider Moving:
If symptoms persist despite making these changes, it may be time to consider relocating — especially if multiple people are affected in the same building.
Your health and well-being should always come first.
⚠️ Important Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
