Health experts warn that wildfire smoke can lead to increased heart issues
Officials say that pairing these air issues with extreme heat can lead to a potentially dangerous combination.
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Health officials are issuing a warning amid nearly 3,500 fires in Canada and northern Minnesota that are causing air quality alerts across the country. They say that the smoke from these fires can impact one's health.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency says the smoke can travel hundreds of miles and impact air quality and the health of people far away from the fires.
Officials say that pairing these air issues with extreme heat can lead to a potentially dangerous combination.
“It can have a serious impact on cardiovascular health, and we're talking anything from a heart attack to a stroke to increasing your risk for a heart failure exacerbation,” says Dr. Alana Lewis, general cardiologist with Northwestern Medicine.
Lewis says the combination can also trigger cardiac arrest in people with underlying health conditions.
Those at risk include those with:
Asthma
COPD
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Heart conditions
History of a stroke
Congestive heart failure
Certain types of irregular heart rhythms
But Lewis says people can lower their risks.
"Knowing what your risk factors are, knowing if you're susceptible, knowing if you do have a heart condition, and as much as is possible, especially on days like today, I would stay inside as much as you can,” Lewis says.
She says that if one does go outside, they should wear a mask or an N95 to help filter some of the pollutants. People should also stay hydrated. Lewis says that dehydration can make one even more susceptible to health issues due to the humidity.
For those with asthma, Lewis says people should make sure to bring their prescribed inhalers with them.
She says that anyone who experiences chest discomfort, shortness of breath, a racing heart, extreme perspiration or nausea should seek medical attention immediately.
“Don't ignore it because this could be a really dangerous time right now,” Lewis says.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that one can check the air quality in their area by plugging in their ZIP code to Airnow.gov.
