Can contaminated well water or air contribute to allergies, colds, or bronchitis?
In general allergies, colds and bronchitis can be aggravated by many environmental contaminants. Dust, vapors, aerosols, and gases can be inhaled and irritate mucous membranes of the entire respiratory tree. Water contaminants can become airborne (aerosolized, vapors) at the tap (during showers) and inhaled and potentially cause irritation of the respiratory tract. Many respiratory irritants may also be sensitizers. This means that after initial exposure to a compound repeated exposure to even very small concentrations can irritate the respiratory tree and produce an allergic response. It becomes very difficult to identify which contaminants may be contributing to symptoms as either respiratory irritants or as sensitizers. Some individuals exposed to known sensitizers may never become sensitized or irritated by a compound. Others may be very sensitive to a variety of compounds. In general, minimizing exposure to respiratory irritants and allergens will reduce the risk of respiratory ir
