Understanding Air Quality and Its Impact on Health

Air pollution from wildfires can affect air quality across the country, including right here in Michigan. In fact, you can readily see the haze or even ash at times and sometimes can even smell it. The Air Quality Index (AQI), a system used by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to report air quality, often rises to unhealthy levels due to these events so it is important to know its impact on your health.

What happens to people with lung diseases when they breathe “very unhealthy” air?

Breathing air labeled as “very unhealthy” can greatly affect people with lung diseases like asthma or COPD. For these individuals, bad air quality can make it hard to breathe right away. If they keep breathing this polluted air, their symptoms might get worse, and managing their condition becomes harder.

How does “very unhealthy” air quality impact healthy people and those at higher risk?

Even healthy people can have health problems when exposed to “very unhealthy” air. They might face a greater risk of breathing issues. People with heart problems could have a higher chance of heart attacks and strokes because of the pollution. Vulnerable groups, like kids and teens, might also have trouble with lung development if they keep breathing bad air. In very bad cases, it might be best for people, especially those at higher risk, to consider leaving the area for the time period when the air is “very unhealthy” to avoid its harmful impact.

How can people protect themselves when the air quality is bad?
When the air quality is bad, people can do a few things to stay safe. First, try to stay inside as much as you can and avoid doing strenuous activities outside. If you have to go out, wearing a mask like an N95 can help keep out harmful stuff in the air. Prevent smoke from entering homes by closing windows and minimizing the opening of outside doors. Using air conditioning and air purifiers can cut down on pollution inside your home. You can also turn on the air recirculator in your car and use central air conditioning at home.

Who needs to be extra careful when the air quality is bad, and what should they do?

Some individuals, including pregnant women, kids, older adults, and those with health problems, need to be extra careful when the air quality is bad. It’s important to keep an eye on these people and help them stay away from bad air as much as possible. Even though a few days of bad air might not hurt healthy people in the long run, it’s still smart to be careful and follow these tips to stay safe.

What are symptoms of exposure to poor air quality?

During periods of poor air quality, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly if you experience significant respiratory difficulties, chest pain or tightness, wheezing or whistling sounds when breathing, or any worsening of existing respiratory conditions such as asthma. For individuals with underlying conditions such as asthma or COPD, it is important to stay current with maintenance medications and keep a rescue inhaler handy. Always consult a health care provider if you experience any concerning symptoms related to air quality.

What is a source to check area air quality?
For the most up-to-date information on the air quality in your area, you can visit www.airnow.gov. You can also sign up for alerts at www.enviroflash.info

By understanding these risks and taking preventive measures, individuals can better protect themselves and their families during periods of unhealthy air quality due to wildfires or other sources of pollution.

Paul Berg, M.D., M.H.A., is chief medical officer and senior vice president, MyMichigan Health