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Sick building syndrome (SBS) describes situations where building occupants experience acute health and comfort effects that appear to be linked to time spent in a particular building, but no specific illness or cause can be identified. The symptoms typically improve or disappear soon after leaving the building.
Common symptoms
Headache
Eye, nose, or throat irritation (dryness, stinging, hoarseness)
Dry cough
Dry or itchy skin (rashes)
Dizziness
Nausea
Difficulty concentrating (brain fog)
Fatigue
Sensitivity to odors
Hoarseness of voice
Allergy-like symptoms (sneezing, runny nose, burning sensations in the nose)
Cold or flu-like symptoms
Increased incidence of asthma attacks or breathing difficulties (wheezing, chest tightness)
Chemical contaminants from indoor sources (Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from adhesives, carpeting, upholstery, manufactured wood products like formaldehyde, copy machines, pesticides, cleaning agents, paints, solvents, office supplies, environmental tobacco smoke)
Chemical contaminants from outdoor sources (pollutants from motor vehicle exhausts, plumbing vents, building exhausts entering through poorly located air intake vents, windows, or other openings; combustion products from nearby garages)
Physical factors (poor lighting, flickering lights, bad acoustics, poor ergonomics, humidity imbalances, high levels of carbon dioxide, dust and particulate matter, poor temperature control)
Psychological factors (job-related stress or dissatisfaction, poor interpersonal relationships, other psychosocial factors)
Building design and maintenance (poor building design, inconsistent operation/maintenance, faulty building aerodynamics, construction materials, maintenance neglect)
Medical treatment
Alleviating symptoms and reducing exposure to the causes
Symptomatic relief with allergy medications (e.g., antihistamines for itchy eyes, nose, skin) and asthma medications (e.g., inhalers for breathing difficulties)
Improving indoor air quality (IAQ) by increasing fresh air intake and ventilation (opening windows, adjusting HVAC systems)
Regular HVAC system maintenance, including cleaning ducts and replacing air filters
Using air purifiers, especially those with HEPA filters, to remove airborne contaminants
Controlling humidity levels (aiming for 40-60%) to prevent mold growth and reduce dust mites
Using low-fume and fragrance-free cleaning products, and choosing low-VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints and furnishings
Reducing sources of indoor contaminants and maintaining overall cleanliness
Taking regular breaks outside the building, taking screen breaks, and incorporating physical activity like standing or walking around the office
Stress reduction techniques
From an Ayurvedic perspective, addressing dosha imbalances (Vata and Kapha aggravated by cold, dry, still, and polluted environments)
Ayurvedic herbal remedies such as Tulsi (Holy Basil) for respiratory protection, Ashwagandha for immunity, Neem for detoxification, and incorporating turmeric, ginger, black pepper, cumin, raw honey, and ghee into the diet
Ayurvedic therapies like Nasya (nasal oil application) to strengthen mucosal lining and Abhyangam (warm oil massage) for detoxification
Herbal steam inhalation
Ayurvedic perspective
Ayurveda views health as intrinsically linked to the environment, based on the concept of Panchamahabhutas (five elements) that constitute both humans and nature. Environmental pollutants, including indoor air contaminants, are considered 'Agantuja Nidana' (external causes of disease) that disrupt the body's natural balance. Exposure to these toxins leads to the accumulation of 'Ama' (undigested toxic residue) and vitiates 'Agni' (digestive fire). This Ama can clog the body's subtle channels (srotas), impair metabolism, and weaken 'Vyadhiksamatva' (immunity), manifesting as various physical and mental symptoms similar to those observed in Sick Building Syndrome. The Ayurvedic concept of 'Desha' (habitat) also highlights how geographical and ecological factors significantly impact disease expression and susceptibility. Polluted air, specifically referred to as 'Raja-dhooma' and 'Dushit Vayu' in ancient texts, is recognized as a causative factor for respiratory ailments.
Avoid processed foods, refined sugars, unhealthy fats, fried foods, cold foods, raw foods (especially for Vata types), and heavy foods, as these can aggravate Ama.
Incorporate detoxifying spices such as ginger, turmeric, cumin, coriander, fennel, black pepper, and cardamom into meals to kindle Agni.
Drink warm water and herbal teas (e.g., ginger, tulsi, CCF tea with cumin, coriander, fennel) throughout the day to flush out toxins and support digestion.
Include all six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, pungent, astringent, bitter) in the diet, favoring pungent, astringent, and bitter tastes to reduce Ama.
Practice mindful eating: eat at regular times, without distractions, and only until satisfied, not stuffed.
Establish a consistent daily routine (Dinacharya) including regular wake-up/sleep times and meal times to balance doshas and support natural detoxification processes.
Practice daily self-massage (Abhyanga) with warm herbal oils (e.g., sesame oil) to stimulate lymphatic drainage, loosen toxins, calm the nervous system, and improve circulation.
Incorporate gentle yoga, meditation, and pranayama (breathing techniques like Nadi Shodhana, Bhramari, Sheetali, Kapalbhati) to manage stress, clear mental fog, balance doshas, and enhance respiratory function.
Ensure 7-8 hours of quality sleep to allow the body's natural detoxification processes to occur smoothly.
Engage in moderate physical activity like walking or gentle yoga to improve circulation and promote toxin elimination through sweat, avoiding overexertion.
Reduce exposure to environmental pollutants by using air filter masks outdoors, avoiding peak traffic hours, and growing air-purifying plants indoors (e.g., bamboo, areca palm, peace lily, money plant).
Utilize natural cleaning agents instead of chemical detergents and adopt mindful consumption habits to reduce environmental impact.
Consider Panchakarma therapies (e.g., Vamana, Virechana, Basti, Nasya) under the guidance of an Ayurvedic expert for comprehensive detoxification and rejuvenation, especially for deep-seated toxins.
