Warmer temperatures return, be prepared for wildfire smoke

Earlier this week, smoke from the Bear Gulch fire, near Lake Cushman, descended on the greater Seattle area. It’s a reminder that smoke from wildfires can impact the air we breathe.

Common signs that wildfire smoke may be affecting you include headaches, itchy eyes, congestion, a sore throat, or a cough.

But some symptoms should prompt you to call your doctor or consider going to the ER if they are severe.

“Symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, using your asthma medications more than usual, chest tightness or chest pain, and palpitations,” Lung Disease Specialist Dr. Cora Sack said.

In an interview provided by UW Medicine, she noted certain people are more at risk from wildfire smoke because of underlying health conditions, particularly those affecting their heart and lungs.

“We have really robust evidence that people are more likely to have asthma exacerbations or COPD exacerbations in response to wildfire smoke,” Sack shared.

How to protect from wildfire smoke

Wildfire smoke can also adversely affect people with other underlying health conditions, the very young and old, pregnant women, and those who work outdoors. If you must be outdoors, consider wearing a mask to keep out airborne particles, such as a certified N95, N100, or P100.

“For masks to be effective, they need to be tight-fitting respirators that fit over your nose and mouth and have two straps,” Sack said.

Those who are most at risk from wildfire smoke should consider staying indoors, in a home or office with a good air filtration system.

“Stocking up on supplies such as non-perishable goods and medications in case you need to stay indoors,” Sack shared.

She recommended checking the Washington Smoke Blog or Air Now to keep track of conditions and make informed decisions.

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