I narrowed it down to one room.  I knew something  was off because within 5 to 10 minutes in that space  my tinnitus escalated dramatically and claimed all my attention.   Then the hearing itself became quite diminished and I could not have a normal conversation.  I conjectured what might be causing this and because my sinuses became involved I thought it might have to do with an air pressure change, much like an airplane. Enough thought, observation and online sleuthing brought me to the topic of this article.  I knew I had to go down that rabbit hole because I am reaching the one year anniversary of the car crash: total loss of my Prius and a thrashed body for me. This followed a broken femur and titanium rod.  I’m tired of the world harming me. But what can I do? I can do this.

The rest of my life is going to be different than expected. So are many things in many lives. Maybe outing this topic will help change the world. Then, and only then, can I exit stage left.

I’m going to  complain here (rant, kvetch), your choice) about one topic only.. (my kids should stop and send a virtual TY right now otherwise, they’d be on the receiving end.) The topic is indoor air pollution causing damage to those who breathe the air.

Background  – aka Context:  my ears won’t stop ringing, eyes tearing and the toxic cleaning practices go on and on and on. One room in particular I’ve been in recently has my hearing impacted within 5 minutes. My eyes tear quickly. The room is vastly toxic. Cleaning is nonstop.  I research and find:

• Case Western study reveals disinfectants and flame retardants kill brain cells that insulate nerves
• Chemicals in everyday products linked to multiple sclerosis, autism, and Parkinson’s disease
• COVID-era cleaning surge dramatically increased toxic exposure in American homes
• EPA continues slow-walking regulations while families suffer neurological damage

Studies suggest indoor air pollutants are increasing, driven by such things as the types of chemicals in home products and over cleaning.

Silent Brain Cell Massacre

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University discovered that quaternary ammonium compounds, found in popular disinfectants and hair products, systematically destroy oligodendrocytes—specialized brain cells responsible for protecting nerve fibers. After analyzing over 1,800 chemicals, scientists confirmed these compounds cause direct cell death and impair brain development. The study’s lead researcher Paul Tesar warns these represent “previously unrecognized risks” hiding in plain sight across American households, particularly threatening children’s developing brains.

 

THE INSIDE STORY ON INSIDE AIR

“New research exposes how common household products are literally poisoning American brains, targeting the very cells that protect our nervous system while regulatory agencies remain asleep at the wheel.”

Despite policies intended to ensure safe and healthy living environments in places such as senior centers, apartment complexes, etc,  persistent air pollution and overuse of harsh cleaning chemicals creates an unsafe environment for vulnerable residents and cleaners or housekeepers.  The indoor air at many  properties  contains elevated levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants due to excessive cleaning practices with strong chemical agents, poor ventilation, and inadequate monitoring.  According to health experts, indoor air often contains VOCs, particulate matter, and other toxic substances at levels that can be higher than outdoor air and linked to significant health risks, including respiratory irritation, organ damage, and increased cancer risk. Mindbodygreen

This issue is particularly serious for:

• Seniors and individuals with preexisting health conditions, who are more susceptible to pollutants and airborne toxins. NIEHS
• Housekeeping and maintenance staff, who are routinely exposed to concentrated cleaning chemicals in poorly ventilated spaces—a work hazard that can contribute to dizziness, respiratory distress, and long-term health problems.

Current cleaning protocols appear to prioritize constant use of harsh disinfectants rather than evidence-based practices that reduce risk. Repeated exposure to strong chemical cleaners can release VOC pollutants into the air. These  have been associated with irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, central nervous system effects, and potential long-term health consequences if exposure is chronic. US EPA

Given these hazards, how about  we quickly take the following actions:

1. Conduct a full indoor air quality assessment by qualified environmental health professionals, including VOC levels, particulate matter (PM2.5), formaldehyde, and other pollutants. (You know that gray fake wood that everyone is remodeling with? It’s not wood, it’s poly vinyl chloride with formaldehyde, outgassing VOC’s for years.. If you thick its wood let’s go for a walk and I’ll introduce you to a tree.)
2. Review and revise the current cleaning and sanitization protocols, prioritizing safer products (e.g., EPA Safer Choice certified or low-VOC alternatives), and limiting the routine use of harsh chemical disinfectants unless medically necessary.
3. Implement enhanced ventilation solutions in common areas and units—such as improved HVAC filtration and regular maintenance—to reduce the buildup of airborne pollutants.
4. Provide training and protective equipment for housekeeping staff, ensuring their work does not put them at risk of toxic chemical exposure.
5. Communicate transparently with residents about indoor air quality risks and plans to mitigate them.

“The health and well-being of residents and housekeepers—must be a priority. Indoor air quality is not a trivial concern; it is a foundational component of healthy housing. I urge living quarters  to address this matter promptly and effectively.”

Brain Poisoning: Household Products Under Fire

 

Suggestions

 

1. Review/ revise the current cleaning and sanitization protocols..Use safer products (e.g., EPA Safer Choice certified or low-VOC alternatives), and limiting the routine use of harsh chemical disinfectants.
2. Implement enhanced ventilation solutions in common areas and units—such as improved HVAC filtration and regular maintenance.

3. 3. Stop over cleaning. I have watched housekeeping spray and wipe the same table many times in a short period of time.