Wildfire smoke is becoming an increasingly common health hazard as wildfires grow more frequent and intense. Understanding the health impacts of wildfire smoke and taking precautions can help protect you and your loved ones.
Why Is Wildfire Smoke Harmful?
Wildfire smoke can lead to dangerously high pollution levels, far exceeding those seen in typical U.S. urban settings—PM 2.5. Particulate matter from wildfire smoke is even finer and contains higher levels of carcinogens. This increases its toxicity and the risk of negative health impacts.
“Particles in wildfire smoke can be so small that they more readily pass from the air into the blood and are then transported around the body,” says Robert Paine, MD, a pulmonologist at University of Utah Health. “Wildfire smoke may have an even great risk of causing acute problems compared to regular urban pollution.”
These tiny particles can cause both short-term and long-term health issues.
Short-Term Health Impacts
Exposure to wildfire smoke can trigger acute health problems, especially in vulnerable individuals. These include:
- Asthma attacks: Children are particularly susceptible, often leading to increased visits to pediatric emergency rooms.
- Heart attacks: Those with heart disease may experience acute cardiac events.
- Strokes: Increased stroke risks are linked to high levels of particulate pollution.
- Respiratory issues: Hospital visits for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchitis, or emphysema rise during wildfire events.
Long-Term Health Impacts
Exposure to higher levels of pollution over a longer period of time can lead to severe health consequences:
- Asthma and COPD: Long-term exposure increases the risk of developing these conditions and aggravates existing ones.
- Lung disease: Chronic obstructive lung disease can develop, similar to cigarette-related lung disease.
- Cancer: Wildfire smoke contains carcinogens that may elevate risks for lung, head, neck, and other cancers.
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes: Higher exposure is associated with premature births and low birth weight, potentially leading to long-term health challenges for the baby.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the effects of wildfire smoke:
- People with preexisting conditions: This includes those with heart or lung diseases, such as coronary artery disease, asthma, or COPD.
- Older adults: Age-related health vulnerabilities increase risks.
- Children: Their developing lungs and higher activity levels make them more susceptible.
- Pregnant people: Risks include complications like premature birth and low birth weight. Babies can experience long-term health issues due to particulate pollution exposure.
Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms from wildfire smoke exposure often appear quickly. If you’ve been exposed to wildfire smoke, pay attention to your body, especially if you have a preexisting condition.
“I always tell my patients to listen to their body and pay attention to their symptoms. If your symptoms are worsening and not responding to your usual interventions, seek medical help.”
If you notice that any of the following symptoms are worsening, see a doctor:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest discomfort
- Asthma or COPD symptoms
- Premature contractions in pregnant women
How to Protect Yourself During Wildfire Smoke Events
Limiting exposure to wildfire smoke is the first step to minimize your risk. You can also take the following precautions:
- Stay indoors: Close windows and doors. Use HVAC systems with high-efficiency filters.
- Use air purifiers: Invest in one or create a DIY version using MERV-13 filters and a box fan.
- Wear a mask: Use tight-fitting N95 or KN95 masks if you must go outside.
- Use your medications: During these periods of exposure, pay particular attention to using medications as directed by your health care provider.
- Monitor symptoms: Pay attention to breathing difficulties, chest discomfort, or worsening of preexisting conditions. Seek medical help if symptoms escalate.
Wildfire smoke is a significant health hazard, but with the right precautions, you can minimize your risk. Stay informed about air quality levels in your area and take steps to protect yourself, especially if you belong to a high-risk group.
