In a poorly ventilated office, ozone from photocopiers can make an allergic reaction to house dust mites worse. Prolonged exposure to ozone can temporarily change the ‘tone’ of the lungs making them ‘twitchy’ and more responsive to an injury from mite enzymes. The change in the ‘tone’ of the lungs can build continuously for 6 hours and once established, persist for 24 hours. People with asthma should understand this danger and avoid prolonged exposure to ozone in the workplace.
Clin. Exp. Allergy 2003; 33: 777-782
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