What Effect Does Air Quality Have on Your Health?

Earlier this week, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy issued an air quality alert in 28 counties in Michigan, including many of the counties that MyMichigan Health serves. According  to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Air Quality Index, these counties were at a ‘red’ or ‘orange’ level of air quality, which is unhealthy, especially for certain sensitive populations. 

Poor air quality can be caused by any airborne irritant, including air pollution or natural disasters, like wildfires. In this particular instance, wildfires that began in the Canadian provinces of Nova Scotia and Quebec burned for several days, creating hazy skies, smoke and fog throughout much of the state of Michigan. 

When we have poor air quality, it can make it difficult for anyone to breathe, but it can be especially difficult for young children, older adults, pregnant women and people who have a lung condition, asthma or other pre-existing respiratory condition. Wildfire smoke can also irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs and put you at a higher risk for developing a respiratory infection. 

In addition, although wildfire smoke itself is not an allergen, it can certainly irritate your nasal passages and airway. Given that during this time of year, those with seasonal allergies may already be experiencing allergy symptoms, it’s possible that you may notice enhanced allergy symptoms if you’re outside for an extended period of time.  

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself when the air quality outside is poor. For those at higher risk especially, I would recommend avoiding strenuous outdoor activities (this includes mowing your lawn!) or being outside for an extended period of time when at all possible. If you have to be outside, an N95 mask is recommended to help filter out pollutants. When indoors, you should also keep doors, windows and fireplaces closed, and you can run an air purifier in your home, if you have one. If you have asthma, or use an inhaler for any reason, make sure it’s readily available not expired in case you need to use it. If you begin to experience respiratory symptoms, contact your health care provider. If you are experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain or wheezing/whistling in the chest, seek medical attention immediately. 

David Jordahl, M.D., is a family medicine physician and president of MyMichigan Medical Group.