Which pollutant is commonly associated with respiratory distress during high pollution days?

Ozone is commonly associated with respiratory distress during high pollution days because it is a significant component of smog, particularly in urban areas during warmer months. When sunlight reacts with pollutants like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides, ozone forms at ground level, which can irritate the airways and exacerbate conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. Exposure to elevated ozone levels can lead to coughing, throat irritation, and difficulty breathing, making it particularly harmful for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting respiratory conditions.

In contrast, while carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas and does contribute to climate change, it does not have the same immediate impact on respiratory health as ozone does. Carbon monoxide, while hazardous and capable of causing serious health effects, primarily affects the cardiovascular system rather than directly causing respiratory distress in the same way ozone does. Nitrogen oxides can contribute to the formation of ozone and other respiratory issues but are not as directly associated with acute respiratory distress as ozone itself.