A heavy fog that "smells like chemicals" has been covering several parts of the United States lately, raising health concerns for people exposed to it. Reports have described sore throats and coughing, fatigue, and eye irritation among the exposed. But why does this fog smell so weird, and why are some people falling ill?

In this article, we will explore the science behind this phenomenon, how fog forms, and why it might sometimes carry chemical odors that linger in the air. By the end, we will also debunk some of the more speculative claims that have surfaced in the wake of this mysterious fog event.

The ‘Chemical Fog’ and Its Health Impacts

The fog has started trending on social media, with multiple users saying that it smells of fireworks, chemicals, or even sewage. David Bamber of St. Petersburg, Florida, shared a very popular TikTok video describing the sensation of walking through the fog and having the feeling of inhaling something toxic. Others reported developing respiratory conditions, including sore throats, coughs, and general fatigue, which they blamed directly on the fog. In fact, a Florida resident described how, following a short detour at a gas station, she started sneezing uncontrollably and became feverish, with stomach cramps as well. For some, this "sickness-fog" has become an urgent health issue.

As alarming as this is, the mist might not seem so evil. After all, there are scientifically established reasons about how fog functions with its surroundings, especially relating to pollutants, which could strengthen the odor it has.

Fog Formation and Its Chemical Absorption

This takes place when the water vapor present in the air condenses to become small water droplets and eventually form a low-lying cloud, making visibility hard to perceive. Such droplets will act as natural scavengers absorbing all airborne pollutants and particles. Moisture contained within the fog will amplify the concentration of pollutants such as chemicals and odors to make them much stronger and hence easily noticed.

According to Washington University atmospheric scientist Professor Rudolf Husar, chemicals trapped within the fog droplets "include sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides, gases primarily produced by industrial activity, vehicle emissions, and, more rarely, natural fires. Those chemicals stay in the air a long time, especially because when they are trapped in these droplets, they become concentrated and kindle chemicals and odors in the surrounding environment.". This process is known as "scavenging," where fog droplets absorb gases and pollutants, allowing them to linger longer than they might in clearer air.

Also Read: Health Concerns Rise As US, Canada, and UK Come Under The Blanket Of Thick, Dense, Toxic Fog

The reason why this fog smells so potently is that humidity increases the way smells move. When water molecules in the air combine with odor-causing molecules, they tend to last longer and thus become more pronounced to our noses. This explains why some people have reported that the fog smells like chemicals or even like sewage, depending on the surrounding environment's air quality.

What Role Does Atmospheric Conditions and Pollutants Play?

More than just an atmospheric visual appearance, fog could often trap most kinds of pollutants when the ground-adjacent layers are extremely cold, often experienced during the cold season. As it douses many inhabited spaces, pollution is able to cling with the fog through smokes emitted from vehicles, factory chemicals, among other things. When people inhale this "chemical fog," they may feel irritation in the respiratory system. It is particularly more sensitive to individuals with pre-existing conditions, like asthma, who have airways that are easily irritated by a change in air quality.

In addition, air pollution generally causes a variety of health issues, from simple coughing and congestion to severe respiratory problems. The moisture of the fog increases these effects, introducing more water into the lungs and causing irritation. This is why some people may feel shortness of breath, chest pain, or even experience wheezing when exposed to dense, polluted fog.

Fogs often occur where, for instance, Florida regions do, following a specific set of weather, often temperature inversion. In cases of temperature inversions, there will be cooler air trapped very close to Earth by warmer air over it so that pollutants from whatever source have less space to dispel into the atmosphere. That accumulated pollutant within the fog contributes to having that chemical even more pungent.

Besides pollution, local moisture sources heavily influence fog. For example, areas next to large bodies of water like the San Francisco Bay often see thick fog in summer months as the water chills the surrounding air. However, in some areas, fog can form where moisture from the ground is evaporating into the air, condensing, and forming thick fog near the surface. Moisture, once condensed, can absorb pollutants and enhance existing odors.

Is There a Conspiracy Behind the Fog?

As the fog event has continued, some people have begun to speculate that there might be a more sinister or secretive explanation for the phenomenon. Conspiracy theories have been circulated, suggesting that the fog could be the result of a chemical weapon or even a government experiment. Such claims have largely been fueled by comparisons to Operation Sea Spray, a controversial U.S. The Navy biological warfare experiment in the 1950s where bacteria were released in the San Francisco Bay area to test the city's vulnerability to biowarfare.

Also Read: When Fear Clouds Judgment- The Psychology Behind The Mysterious Fog Over US And Canada

Even if the thought of a planned chemical fog, produced by humans, is quite threatening, science cannot prove such an idea. In fact, according to experts, the cause for the fog may simply be a part of the regular weather, in combination with higher concentrations of pollutants from human sources. Chemicals in the air, specifically sulfur and nitrogen compounds, are nothing but by-products of industrial pollution, not some sort of deliberate attack.

Why Does Fog Smell Like Chemicals?

In summary, the chemical-like odor produced by fog is a result of various environmental and atmospheric conditions. Due to fog's natural collecting characteristic, pollutants are trapped inside the fog droplets, which are very small in size. Thus, these pollutants include sulfur and nitrogen oxides, which are usually derived from vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and even wildfire cases. The moisture in the fog makes these odors more observable and potent.

Fog is not dangerous in itself, but the pollutants it captures can cause irritation to the respiratory system, especially for people who have pre-existing health conditions. Knowing how fog forms and how it interacts with its surroundings will help us prepare better for the effects of fog and address health concerns that may be triggered.

Even if this recent bout of fog caused concern, there's scientific logic for why this situation is not to be worried about. Nonetheless, being cognizant and knowing the quality of air is also a form of mitigation from this thick chemical smell fog that affects health.

When the pregnancy test turns positive, a flood of excitement, anticipation, and in many cases, anxiety sets in—not only for the mother-to-be, but also for her partner. When all eyes usually remain on the pregnant woman's body and mood, new research and anecdotal evidence are revealing an unexpected phenomenon: expectant fathers can experience physical and psychological changes that resemble pregnancy symptoms. This is a real phenomenon, referred to as Couvade Syndrome or sympathetic pregnancy—something that isn't imagined, but a valid and multifaceted reaction that's gaining international acclaim.

What Is Couvade Syndrome?

Couvade Syndrome is named from the French term couver, which means "to brood" or "incubate." It is a disorder where men develop pregnancy-like symptoms as their partner is pregnant. These symptoms start in the first trimester, decrease in the second trimester, and then show up again in the third trimester—tightly following the path of the mother.

Though not technically classified as a medical or psychological illness, Couvade Syndrome has been noted through various cultures and societies. In certain tribal rituals of old, men would ritually perform labor to show support for their mate—a ritualistic forerunner to the psychosomatic phenomenon now clinically debated as an empathetic, stress-related, or hormonal response.

Physical and Emotional Symptoms of Couvade Syndrome

Think it's all in their minds? Think again. Pregnant men with Couvade Syndrome describe a remarkable array of physical and mental symptoms:

• Nausea and vomiting: A surprising similarity to morning sickness
• Gastrointestinal problems: Bloating, stomach cramps, diarrhea or constipation
• Changes in appetite and weight: Some put on weight (aka "sympathy weight"), others can lose their appetite completely
• Sleep problems and fatigue: Insomnia or constant drowsiness
• Back pain and leg cramps
• Toothaches and skin rashes
• Mood swings, irritability, anxiety and depression

Up to 38% of expectant fathers, or the first-time father in one international study, experienced over 19 symptoms when they found out that their partner was pregnant. The reasons are not certain yet but the most commonly accepted theories are psychosomatic reactions, hormonal changes (such as reduced testosterone and increased prolactin), and psychological mechanisms like "compathy," shared pain or emotional distress.

Is Couvade Syndrome Common?

Surprisingly, yes—more than you might have guessed. Incidence rates of Couvade syndrome also differ widely based on the nation and study criteria, from 11% up to a whopping 65% worldwide. In the United States alone, estimates suggest that between 25% to 97% of expectant fathers could experience it. The rate in Poland is as high as 72%, with the United Kingdom and Australia reporting lower rates, at between 25% and 31%. Other nations, such as Sweden, Thailand, and China, also register considerable prevalence. These differences indicate that although the phenomenon may be subjective and culturally influenced, sympathetic pregnancy is certainly no rarity.

What Causes Couvade Syndrome?

The scientific community hasn't yet determined a single determining cause of Couvade syndrome, but some of the most current theories provide interesting explanations. One explanation is empathy and emotional attachment—men who are strongly bonded to their pregnant partner might unconsciously pick up and mirror their partner's bodily stress. Hormonal changes have also been found, with research reporting decreased testosterone and raised levels of prolactin and cortisol in some prospective fathers, which can cause mood swings, lethargy, or other physical symptoms. Stress and anxiety, especially for first-time dads, can also be a factor, with the prospect of new responsibility bearing down on them physically. Also, shifting psychosocial expectations of fatherhood could be a factor. As social norms change and promote more engaged, emotionally responsive parenting, men might internalize and replicate facets of pregnancy more strongly than generations past.

Dads today are not hanging back in the wings anymore. From attending prenatal visits to taking birthing classes and carrying out skin-to-skin contact after birth, contemporary dads are actively involved. This greater engagement may be amplifying their emotional and physiological identification with pregnancy, a component of couvade symptoms' prevalence.

Anthropologists consider that this change is a development of classic gender roles and possibly the reason couvade syndrome is reported more often today than in earlier generations.

Coping with and Managing Couvade Symptoms

There is no official treatment of Couvade Syndrome, but there are methods that can ease it:

Stay informed: Taking prenatal classes and reading parenting books can prepare expectant fathers better.

Communicate: Have open talks with your partner concerning your feelings and physical changes. You can be met with mutual understanding instead of confusion or dismissal.

Consult professionals: If symptoms become a cause of distress, talking to a psychologist or a medical doctor can provide insight and ways of coping.

Practice self-care: Regular exercise, meditation, and proper nutrition can help in coping with stress-related symptoms.

Lean on your support network: Don't be afraid to call on friends, family, or online networks of expectant dads.

While it is common, couvade syndrome usually goes unnoticed—dismissed as strange, overblown, or even manipulative behavior but defined as a real psychosomatic experience can affirm expectant dads and open the door to more honest, supportive dialogue throughout pregnancy.

Understanding that pregnancy impacts both partners—though differently—can promote mutual compassion, enhance communication, and cultivate deeper emotional connections on one of life's most transcendent paths.

Pregnancy could be an experience shared in ways we never thought possible. Couvade Syndrome, although yet to be fully comprehended, highlights the depth of emotion and changing role of modern dads.

Heart disease is a major problem throughout the world. Being one of the top killers globally, doctors often urge people to understand the symptoms and early signs of heart issues. While there are many emergency treatments people go for when a health situation like a heart attack, stroke, or blockage arises, it is best to take preventative measures as the results are better when you catch the issue early.

When one says heart issues, people often picture a person feeling chest pains and heavy breathing. While there is one sign of deteriorating heart health, there are other more subtle signs as well. Here are some overlooked signs of heart health, according to the British Heart Foundation

Swollen Ankles Can Signal Heart Trouble

Swollen ankles or feet can be a quiet but important sign that your heart isn't working as well as it should. If your heart isn't pumping efficiently, blood can build up in other parts of your body, causing fluid to collect. While swelling can also happen from standing a lot or other health issues, ongoing or unexplained swelling, especially with breathlessness or tiredness, might mean heart failure or circulation problems. If swelling continues or gets worse, it's vital to get medical advice.

Stomach Pain: More Than Just Indigestion?

Sometimes, stomach pain can be a sign of heart issues, even though it's often mistaken for indigestion. Because these symptoms can feel like common stomach problems, they're often overlooked. If your stomach pain won't go away, happens when you exert yourself, or comes with breathlessness, tiredness, or sweating, it's important to see a doctor to rule out more serious concerns.

Unexpected Sweating Can Be a Red Flag

Sweating a lot without a clear reason, like heat or exercise, can be an early warning sign of heart problems. If you start to feel hot and clammy along with chest pains, you should get urgent medical help right away.

Arm and Leg Pain

Leg pain or cramps in your calves could signal peripheral artery disease (PAD), where blood vessels in your legs are narrowed or blocked. This type of pain, especially during activity, means less blood is flowing to your muscles. Having PAD can increase your risk of heart disease or stroke. If you have ongoing leg pain or cramping during activity, talk to a healthcare professional.

Arm pain can also be a key warning sign of a heart attack, often feeling like pain spreading from your chest to your arms. This can come with other symptoms like chest pain or shortness of breath. If you have unexplained arm pain with these signs, get medical help immediately.

Persistent Tiredness: A Sign Your Heart Needs Checking

Constant fatigue, especially when you've had enough sleep and haven't overdone it, can be an early sign of poor heart health. If your heart isn't pumping well, your muscles and tissues get less oxygen-rich blood, making you feel constantly tired or weak. This is often noticeable during everyday activities that used to be easy, like climbing stairs. If you're unusually drained or have low energy often, consider a heart health check. There are even home tests available that can help you understand your heart age and risk factors.

Palpitations and High Blood Pressure: Key Indicators

Frequent or severe palpitations (feeling like your heart is racing or fluttering) can sometimes be harmless, but they might point to an underlying heart condition or an abnormal heart rhythm. One common abnormal rhythm, called atrial fibrillation, can increase your risk of a stroke. Pay attention to these feelings, especially if they come with dizziness, chest pain, or shortness of breath, and seek medical advice to manage your heart health.

High blood pressure is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease. If your blood pressure is too high, it can damage your arteries. You can often get free blood pressure checks at pharmacies to help assess your heart health

“The Boys” actress Erin Moriarty is using her platform to spotlight an often-overlooked autoimmune condition— Graves' disease. In an intimate Instagram post, Moriarty, 30, explained how she thought her symptoms were just stress and exhaustion but was properly diagnosed with Graves' disease last month—an autoimmune disease that impacts 1 in 100 Americans.

Erin Moriarty, posted on Instagram to announce she has been diagnosed with Graves' disease. At first, she had written off her symptoms as just "stress and fatigue." But after treatment began last month, she felt an incredible change in her health. "Within 24 hours of starting treatment, I started feeling the light turn back on — and it's just gotten brighter ever since," she posted. Encouraging her fans to listen to their own health, she added, "If your light is fading, even a little bit, go get checked."

This revelation doesn't just underscore the need to heed our bodies—it also yanks Graves' disease out of medical invisibility and into mainstream health conversation. Here's what you need to know about the condition, its symptoms, who it most affects, and how early diagnosis can be a life-saver.

What Is Graves' Disease?

Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly targets the thyroid gland, leading it to release excessive hormones beyond what the body requires. It results in hyperthyroidism—overactive metabolism—and impacts almost every organ in the body.

As stated by the National Institutes of Health, this hormonal excess can interrupt the normal energy balance of the body and lead to a wide range of symptoms that may go unseen or be attributed to contemporary stressors.

Moriarty's story is typical of numerous instances in which early symptoms of autoimmune malfunction are written off. "Autoimmune disease presents differently in everybody/every body," she wrote. In her case, it was a strange degree of fatigue and emotional burnout. "If I hadn't attributed it all to stress and fatigue, I would've caught this sooner."

Within 24 hours of starting treatment, Moriarty reported feeling "the light coming back on"—evidence of how rapidly Graves' disease can recover with the proper treatment when caught early.

Signs of Graves' Disease to Watch Out For

Graves' disease has no one, obvious symptom. Rather, it's usually a disorienting mix of physical and emotional symptoms. Early signs are:

• Sensitivity to heat
• Unexplained weight loss even though appetite is normal or increased
• Fatigue, insomnia, or nervousness
• Anxiety, irritability, and tremors
• With worsening of the disease, people may have:
• Rapid heart rate or palpitations
• Increased bowel movements
• Shortness of breath
• Interrupted menstrual periods
• Erectile dysfunction or decreased libido

One of the more overt effects is Graves' ophthalmopathy—occasionally seen in a third of patients—which may result in:

• Bulging or irritated eyes
• Blurred or double vision
• Light sensitivity
• Eye pressure or pain

It is rare that patients will develop Graves' dermopathy, a thickened and colored skin eruption, particularly on the shins.

What Causes Graves' Disease?

Though precise causes are unknown, the Cleveland Clinic identifies a combination of environmental and genetic factors. A renegade immune system starts to make antibodies that hyperstimulate the thyroid gland. Heredity accounts for approximately 79% of the risk factor, but stress, infections, and hormonal changes may serve as the trigger.

Moriarty's experience is familiar to many young women who discount recurring symptoms until they have reached a crisis point. "Within 24 hours of starting treatment," she wrote, "I began to feel the light coming on."

Who's Most at Risk?

Graves' disease is a relatively uncommon condition, but it strikes disproportionately against women, five times more likely to be diagnosed than men. Risk factors are:

• Family history of autoimmune disorders
• Deficiency in vitamin D or selenium
• Smoking
• Underlying conditions such as Type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, or rheumatoid arthritis

Women in their 20s and 30s—such as Moriarty—are especially susceptible, making it even more important to be aware of it early on, says Yale Medicine.

Treating Graves' Disease

In the U.S., treatment usually begins with medicines known as antithyroid medications, such as methimazole or propylthiouracil, which suppress the production of thyroid hormones. Most individuals start feeling better within a short time, but complete remission takes anywhere from 12 to 18 months.

When medications do not bring long-term relief from Graves' disease, more intensive measures may be needed. Radioiodine therapy is a common technique that destroys the excess thyroid tissue. When the condition is more severe or does not respond to other measures, a thyroidectomy might be necessary. Because both procedures can result in hypothyroidism, hormone replacement therapy is usually lifelong to sustain hormonal equilibrium. As in the case of Erin Moriarty, identifying symptoms early and taking prompt action can greatly enhance the quality of life and avert complications.

What Are The Risks of Not Treating Graves' Disease?

Untreated, Graves' disease can severely impact overall health and result in several complications. One of the more alarming risks is atrial fibrillation, a form of irregular heart rhythm that can worsen to heart failure or stroke. In extreme cases, the patient can suffer a thyroid storm — a sudden and life-threatening injection of thyroid hormones. The disease also leads to osteoporosis over time, making the patient more prone to fractures through weakened bones. Furthermore, there's also a higher risk of developing thyroid cancer. For pregnant women, the stakes are even greater: if left untreated, Graves' disease can result in severe consequences including miscarriage, preeclampsia, preterm labor, and low birth weight. These complications make early diagnosis and continued management critically important.

Celebrity disclosures like Moriarty’s bring invaluable attention to conditions that are often misunderstood or stigmatized. By sharing her journey, Moriarty not only shed light on Graves’ disease but also issued a crucial call to action,“Go get checked.”

If you’ve been experiencing persistent fatigue, rapid heartbeat, or unexplained weight loss, don’t ignore the signs. In Moriarty’s words: “If yours is dimming, even slightly, go get checked.”