The odor of ozone is noticeable at low levels. As the level of ozone increases, the ability to smell it may decrease. This is especially true when a person is frequently exposed. A lack of odor and fewer symptoms may falsely give the impression of reduced exposure, even though further damage to health may be taking place. Children may suffer lung irritation but not notice or complain about symptoms.
Children breathe more rapidly and inhale more pollutants per pound of their body weight than adults.
Healthy individuals who exercise while ozone levels are elevated can experience reduced lung function leading to chest pain, coughing, wheezing, and congestion. During exercise, air intake increases and air is drawn more deeply into the lungs. A study of longtime Los Angeles residents, who experience the most frequent outdoor ozone problem in the nation, found that the group had a higher than expected loss of lung function. Ozone is always present at very low levels, but you can do certain things to control ozone sources indoors and limit your exposure to ozone outdoors. These devices can be effective in reducing smoke, odors, and other air contaminants, but can be harmful to your health by producing excess ozone.