Smoke is in the Air

Smoke is in the air

Everywhere I look around

Smoke is in the air

In every sight and every sound

(Sung to the tune of “Love is in the Air” by John Paul Young)

Anyone experiencing allergy symptoms for the first time or are having a non seasonal allergy flare up?

● Stinging eyes
● Scratchy throat
● Runny nose
● Coughing
● Sinus irritation
● Wheezing or shortness of breath
● Headaches
● Fatigue
● Rapid Heart rate

The above symptoms could be because of the smoke in the air due to wildfires.

What is the Air Quality Index or AQI? It was established to measure air pollutants. The higher AQI, with color codes and corresponding numbers (ranging from 0-500) means greater health concern.

Particle pollution is a type of air pollutant made up of tiny particles of solids /liquids suspended in air. It is one of the main components of wildfire smoke, which is a mix of grass and fine particles from burning vegetation, as well as building and other materials. The smaller the particulate matter is, the easier it is for those particles to travel farther down into the lungs and into the bloodstream. Once in the bloodstream, the tiny particles can trigger inflammatory pathways, which in turn can trigger a number of underlying cardiac and respiratory problems.

We have no control over wildfires and the smoke that comes along with it so what can we do to stay healthy in bad air?

● Watch the AQI – especially small children and adults with chronic health issues.
● Stay inside – make sure that the ventilation inside is adequate as well i.e., use the vent over your kitchen stove, use a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter. You can also change air conditioner filter and keep the fresh air intake closed.
● Limit heavy outdoor exercise when air quality is poor.
● Wear a N95 or N100 mask for protection if being outdoors is essential.
● Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.

Prevention is always the best medicine – at Beeing Well we would love to help you with your health journey.

Love ya! Carrie