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Health concerns with wildfire smoke
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Wildfires in parts of the Midwest are causing concerns about air quality, even far from the flames. Understanding how wildfire smoke affects health can help you take simple steps to stay safe.
Dr. Jesse Bracamonte, a Mayo Clinic family medicine physician, warns, "Smoke, in general, can affect anyone's health, particularly if they're in areas where wildfires are occurring. It can cause anything from eye irritation to respiratory infection; Generally, respiratory issues and difficulty breathing; even placing your heart at risk for cardiac strain."
He adds that the smoky conditions can be particularly worrisome for people with preexisting conditions. "Those most at risk include those with underlying cardiac issues or underlying pulmonary issues, such as asthma or COPD," he says.
Watch: Dr. Jesse Bracamonte discuss the dangers of wildfire smoke
Journalists: Broadcast-quality sound bites with Dr. Bracamonte are available in the downloads at the end of the post. Please courtesy: "Mayo Clinic News Network." Name super/CG: Jesse Bracamonte, D.O./Family Medicine/Mayo Clinic.
Dr. Bracamonte advises keeping an eye on air quality measures in your area. "If certain levels are high, it's recommended that you stay indoors," he says. "Try to close up windows as much as possible. Try to make sure you have a central air conditioning system so that the air is circulated in your home appropriately."
Health effects of breathing in smoke may include:
- Coughing
- Trouble breathing normally
- Stinging eyes
- Scratchy throat
- Runny nose
- Irritated sinuses
- Wheezing and shortness of breath
- Chest pains
- Headaches
- Asthma attack
- Tiredness
- Fast heartbeat
He says in some instances where the air quality is poor, you're at high risk and must go outdoors, you might consider the use of a respirator to avoid underlying lung injury.
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