Why Is Air Quality Worse During Summer? (And How to Breathe Easier)

During the summer months, many people notice it becomes harder to breathe comfortably—especially on hot, humid days. But why is air quality worse in the summer, and what can you do about it?

From rising ozone levels to increased pollution, summer conditions can significantly impact the air you breathe. For older adults, outdoor workers, athletes, and anyone with respiratory concerns, understanding these changes is key to protecting your health and energy levels.

Why Summer Air Quality Gets Worse

Think of the atmosphere like a giant oven. During the summer, heat and sunlight trigger chemical reactions that “cook” pollutants in the air—leading to poor air quality.

Here’s what’s happening:

Increased sunlight and heat cause chemical reactions between pollutants
Ground-level ozone forms, which is harmful to breathe
Humidity traps pollutants, making the air feel heavier
Vehicle emissions increase due to higher travel and activity levels

This combination creates what experts often call a “chemical soup” of ozone, pollen, mold, and other airborne irritants.

While ozone high in the atmosphere protects us from harmful UV rays, ground-level ozone is a toxic gas that can irritate the lungs and make breathing more difficult.

Why Oxygen Levels Matter

The air we breathe contains about 21% oxygen, which your body relies on for:

Producing energy from food
Supporting brain and organ function
Repairing and replacing cells
Maintaining endurance and stamina

When air quality declines, your body has to work harder to get the oxygen it needs. This can leave you feeling:

Fatigued
Short of breath
Sluggish or low on energy

Over time, poor air quality may also contribute to respiratory irritation or illness—especially in sensitive individuals.

How Air Quality Is Measured (AQI Explained)

Air quality is tracked using the Air Quality Index (AQI), developed by the Environmental Protection Agency.

The AQI measures pollutants such as:

Ozone
Carbon monoxide
Nitrogen dioxide
Sulfur dioxide
Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10)

AQI Scale Breakdown:

0–50: Good air quality
51–100: Moderate
101–150: Unhealthy for sensitive groups
151–200: Unhealthy
201–300: Very unhealthy
301–500: Hazardous

The higher the AQI, the greater the health risk—especially during hot summer days when ozone levels spike.

Symptoms of Poor Air Quality

Breathing polluted air can affect almost anyone, not just those with existing conditions.

Common symptoms include:

Shortness of breath
Chest tightness
Coughing or wheezing
Fatigue or low energy
Irritated eyes, nose, or throat

People with asthma, COPD, or other respiratory issues may experience more severe symptoms.

Which Areas Have the Worst Summer Air Quality?

According to the American Lung Association, some regions consistently rank among the worst for air pollution.

These often include:

California (especially Los Angeles and Central Valley)
Texas
Pensilvania
Oregón
Washington State

Urban areas with heavy traffic, industrial activity, and warm climates tend to experience the highest pollution levels during summer.

How to Breathe Easier During Summer

While you can’t control outdoor air quality, you can take steps to reduce exposure and support your breathing.

Practical Tips:

Check daily AQI forecasts before heading outside
Avoid peak heat hours (typically mid-afternoon)
Exercise in the morning or evening when air is cleaner
Stay indoors on high pollution days
Use air purifiers indoors to improve air quality

Supporting Oxygen Intake

When poor air quality leaves you feeling run down or short of breath, supplemental oxygen can help support your body’s oxygen needs—especially during:

Outdoor activity
Travel
High heat or humidity
Periods of fatigue

It can be a convenient option for maintaining energy and helping you feel more comfortable when air quality isn’t ideal.

Cómo respirar mejor en verano

Si tiene problemas respiratorios por la mala calidad del aire en verano, intente planificar sus actividades diarias al aire libre por la mañana o por la tarde, cuando el calor y la humedad suelen ser más bajos. También puede planificar con antelación utilizando un recurso en línea para comprobar la calidad del aire en su zona. Un buen recurso es AIRNOW.gov, un sitio web gestionado por la EPA que proporciona información actualizada diariamente y fácil de entender sobre la calidad del aire en su zona, incluida la calidad del aire actual, previsiones y anuncios importantes sobre la calidad del aire.

Además, también puede combatir los síntomas de la mala calidad del aire utilizando oxígeno suplementario portátil como Boost Oxygen. Boost Oxygen es oxígeno puro en botes asequibles y cómodos. Es "oxígeno para llevar" portátil para recuperarse de la falta de aire en el calor y la humedad del aire estancado y a veces contaminado. Boost Oxygen es perfecto para lugares o actividades en los que pueda necesitar oxígeno puro, como la playa, el camping, ejercicio como correr al aire libre, senderismo o ciclismo y deportes como baloncesto y tenis.