What Is Sick Building Syndrome—and How It Affects Your Health
- Viv
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
Ever walked into a building and felt dizzy, sluggish, or downright unwell—only to have those symptoms fade once you stepped outside? You might’ve just experienced Sick Building Syndrome (SBS). It's not science fiction—it’s a real health issue lurking in workplaces, schools, hospitals, and even public buildings.
As we become more conscious of how our surroundings affect us, indoor environments have stepped into the health spotlight. SBS is gaining attention as more people connect mysterious symptoms to the places they spend their time.
In this post, we’ll break down the sneaky ways buildings can impact your health. From causes and symptoms to smart solutions, you’ll learn how to spot the signs and take control—because your well-being shouldn't depend on the walls around you.
What Causes Sick Building Syndrome?
Sick Building Syndrome stems from several environmental factors found indoors.
Illnesses associated with buildings are commonly found in modern high-rise structures. These buildings are designed to be airtight for energy efficiency, with sealed windows that limit natural ventilation and daylight. The HVAC system recirculates the indoor air, allowing minimal introduction of fresh air (PMC, 2018). While many factors can contribute, here are some of the most common:
Poor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality is a major contributor to SBS. When buildings lack proper ventilation, indoor pollutants can accumulate, severely affecting health. For instance, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from everyday products like paints and cleaning supplies can lead to headaches and respiratory issues. A study conducted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency noted that indoor air can be up to five times more polluted than outdoor air, emphasizing the need for improved air quality (EPA, 2025)
Chemical Exposure
The materials used in construction and furnishings can emit harmful chemicals. For example, carpets, furniture, and cabinetry made from pressed wood can release formaldehyde, a known irritant. Cleaning products, which often contain harsh chemicals, can also degrade air quality.
Biological Contaminants
Biological contaminants, such as mold and dust mites, pose significant health risks. High humidity levels can foster mold growth, leading to coughing, sneezing, and other allergic reactions.
Electromagnetic Fields
Some studies suggest that prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from electronic devices (computers, phones, other electronic devices) can be linked to symptoms of SBS. While more research is needed, it's a good idea to be mindful of your electronic use, especially in work environments (Youssef, Ascar, 2023)
Symptoms of Sick Building Syndrome
Individuals experiencing Sick Building Syndrome may face various non-specific symptoms, which often improve once they leave the building. Common symptoms include:
Respiratory Issues. People may develop persistent coughs or shortness of breath, exacerbated by poor air quality.
Fatigue and Headaches. Many report feeling fatigued, often accompanied by headaches. T
Eye and Skin Irritation. Dryness, redness, or itching can affect the eyes and skin due to exposure to allergens or irritants.
Cognitive Difficulties. Some individuals may face issues concentrating or recalling information.
A study conducted in the UK reported that 4,052 male and female participants from 44 office buildings experienced symptoms such as headaches, coughs, dry eyes, blocked or runny noses, unexplained fatigue, rashes or itches, cold or flu symptoms, dry throats, sore throats, and wheeziness while working in the office (PubMed, 2018).
Identifying Sick Building Syndrome
Identifying Sick Building Syndrome can be challenging due to symptom overlap with other illnesses. Here are ways to determine if SBS is a concern:
Monitoring Symptoms
Keeping track of when symptoms worsen or improve can help individuals identify trends.
Conducting Assessments
Engaging a professional for indoor air quality assessments can uncover sources of pollution, such as high VOC levels or mold presence.
Engaging with Occupants
Talking to others in the building can clarify if they are experiencing similar issues. When multiple occupants report health problems, it strengthens the case for investigating potential SBS causes.
Addressing Sick Building Syndrome
Once diagnosed, taking steps to mitigate Sick Building Syndrome is crucial. Consider these strategies:
Enhance Ventilation
Improving airflow in the building is essential. Natural ventilation through windows or mechanical systems like HVAC can help dilute indoor pollutants.
Regular Cleaning
Implementing a cleaning schedule focused on removing allergens, mold, and dust can significantly boost health. Using non-toxic cleaners is important, as it minimizes additional chemical exposure.
Control Humidity Levels
Maintaining appropriate humidity levels can prevent mold and reduce dust mite populations. For instance, keeping indoor humidity between 30% and 50% is recommended to minimize these health risks.
Choose Non-Toxic Materials
When constructing or remodeling a building, opting for materials with low VOC emissions can significantly improve air quality, thereby reducing health risks.
Educate Occupants
Educating building occupants about SBS and its impact can empower them to take preventative action. Workshops and informative materials can help raise awareness about best practices for maintaining a healthy indoor environment.
In Closing
Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is a subtle yet serious issue affecting many people without their knowledge. Symptoms like headaches or fatigue often disappear after leaving the space—signaling trouble with indoor air quality.
As our understanding of indoor health grows, taking steps to improve air quality isn’t just smart—it directly enhances our daily wellness and long-term quality of life. Buildings should support health, not undermine it.
References
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Indoor Air Quality (IAQ). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 2025.
Youssef, K.M.F., & Askar, I.M. (2024). Sick Building Syndrome: Experimental Study on the Effect of BioGeometry Design on Electromagnetic (Wi-Fi) Waves in Architectural Spaces.
Nag, P.K. (2018). Sick Building Syndrome and Other Building-Related Illnesses. In Office Buildings: Health, Safety and Environment (pp. 53–103).
