Fine Particulate Matter 2.5 Micrometers or Smaller
Particulate pollution is a complex of mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that can be made up from acids, organic chemicals, metals, soil, dust particle and smoke. Fine particles (PM2.5), 2.5 micrometers in diameter or smaller, are of high concern due to possible impacts to people’s health. PM2.5 contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems. People with heart or lung diseases, children and elders are most likely to be affected by PM2.5 and are considered the at risk population.
Illustration from AirNow Downloads: https://airnow.gov/index.cfm?action=resources.download_images
Design Values and how they affect us
A design value is a statistic that describes the air quality status of our area relative to the level of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
Our Health and PM2.5
People with heart or lung diseases, older adults and children are most likely to be affected by particle pollution exposure. However, even if you are healthy, you may feel temporary symptoms if you are exposed to high levels of particle pollution. Numerous scientific studies connect particle pollution exposure to a variety of health issues, including:
irritation of the eyes, nose and throat
coughing, chest tightness and shortness of breath
reduced lung function
irregular heartbeat
asthma attacks
heart attacks
premature death in people with heart or lung disease