What are the main health effects of particle pollution?
Fine and coarse particles can cause a variety of serious health problems. When exposed to these particles, people with heart or lung diseases and older adults are more at risk of hospital and emergency room visits. These effects have been associated with short-term exposures lasting 24 hours or less. Particles can aggravate heart diseases such as congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease. If a person has heart disease, particles may cause them to experience chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath and fatigue. Particles have also been associated with cardiac arrhythmias and heart attacks. Particles can aggravate lung diseases such as asthma and bronchitis, causing increased medication use and doctor visits. If a person has lung disease, and is exposed to particles, they may not be able to breathe as deeply or vigorously as normal. Such a person may have respiratory symptoms including coughing, phlegm, chest discomfort, wheezing and shortness of breath. Particles can als
