Health hazards from wildfire smoke: Doctors issue warning

The wildfires in Los Angeles have resulted in significant damage to homes and lives, and those who survived may experience undetected but potentially hazardous health consequences.

The EPA states that short-term exposure to the fine particles in wildfire smoke can pose hazards, as it contains a "complex mixture" of pollutants.

These microscopic particles and droplets, known as PM2.5, are 2.5 micrometers or less in diameter.

Dr. Gustavo Ferrer, a Florida pulmonologist with expertise in respiratory health and air quality-related illnesses, stated to Planet Chronicle Digital that your nose and mouth serve as entry points into your body.

He cautioned that the smoke you inhale can accumulate in your sinuses, and prolonged exposure can cause inflammation due to irritation of the lining.

"The body's natural defenses may be overwhelmed by pollution based on these indicators."

A board-certified internal medicine physician in Seattle, Austin Perlmutter, MD, pointed out that wildfire smoke can penetrate lung tissue and enter the bloodstream.

Specific health effects

According to Perlmutter, exposure to air pollution can cause a range of symptoms such as burning eyes, sore throat, cough, sinus problems, fatigue, headaches, chest pain, shortness of breath, and brain fog.

Wildfire smoke can worsen existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis when exposed to for prolonged periods, according to Ferrer.

Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Health and Planet Chronicle senior medical analyst, pointed out that smoke can exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or emphysema.

"A lack of oxygen can trigger a heart attack or stroke."

Perlmutter stated that wildfire smoke is associated with an increased risk of various health issues, such as heart and lung problems and brain dysfunction.

He warned that certain groups, such as individuals with pre-existing heart, lung, or other chronic diseases, infants, young children, and older adults, are at a higher risk.

"The smoke can worsen pre-existing respiratory conditions, like asthma or emphysema."

There are also mental health effects, according to Siegel.

The doctor highlighted the "significant mental health impact" on Californians exposed to wildfires, according to a 10-year study in Nature Mental Health.

"According to Siegel, individuals may experience anxiety about being displaced or losing their homes, which can prevent them from sleeping."

He pointed out the additional risk of falls and injuries from being in areas affected by fire damage.

6 tips to protect health amid wildfires

To minimize the impact of wildfires on health, experts have recommended these steps.

1. Practice nasal hygiene

Keeping your nasal passages open and clean is essential, Ferrer emphasized.

Using a saline nasal spray and washing daily, or up to two times a day, can help keep the filter inside your nose clean and effective, according to the expert.

One can use either a pre-made saline solution or create their own at home using distilled water and salt, as stated.

2. Stay indoors and optimize indoor air

According to Ferrer, it's advisable to minimize outdoor time and shut windows and doors during periods of high smoke levels.

Using HEPA filters can also help to improve air quality, Shah noted.

He recommended investing in air purifiers with HEPA filters to trap PM2.5 particles from wildfire smoke.

Shah advises using weather stripping and changing HVAC filters more frequently.

Perlmutter suggested minimizing indoor air pollution.

"He advised against lighting candles, fires, or incense and smoking indoors. If cooking, use a hood to ventilate."

3. Consider leaving the area temporarily

Dr. Darshan Shah, MD, a board-certified surgeon and founder and CEO of Next Health in California, cautioned that excess chemicals and particulates released during the initial stages of cleanup can negatively impact air quality.

He advised temporarily moving to a safer location until conditions improve.

4. Wear a mask

To protect against smoke particles when going outside, experts suggest using a well-fitted N95 respirator mask.

According to Perlmutter, cloth masks, dust masks, and other lower quality masks are unlikely to offer much protection.

5. Monitor air quality

Experts recommend regularly checking the AQI (Air Quality Index).

Shah advised using apps or websites, such as AirNow, to monitor air quality and avoid outdoor activities when AQI is unhealthy.

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6. Do not tour burned areas

Shah advised against visiting recently burned areas due to the high risk of exposure to harmful chemicals and smoldering smoke, which can severely impact respiratory and overall health.