The experience of living with sick building syndrome

Abstract

This study aims to describe how Sick Building Syndrome can affect people. The study has its basis in in depth interviews with two individuals. The study uses descriptive phenomenology to describe the effect Sick Building Syndrome has had on the participants’ life and how Sick Building Syndrome has affected their quality of life. The study also aims at describing how these individuals perceived others' response to their symptoms and what their expectations were of health care professionals and employers and whether they felt that their expectations were met. This study is part of the TEMA project which is a longitudinal research project between the area of Västerbotten in Sweden and Österbotten in Finland. TEMA is a multidisciplinary project involving not only academia but also other areas such as social and health sectors in both countries and professions concerned with technical aspects of building, such as engineers, architects, and construction builders. The TEMA project aims at creating a better understanding of building related health problems among the general public, employees and employers, making sure that those suffering feel that their symptoms are taken seriously, that adequate and timely care is given and accurate changes are made. TEMA intends to coordinate current efforts in both countries so that best praxis is shared in both languages.