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Showing posts from June, 2024

Wildfire Smoke Affecting Asthma

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If there is one thing I REALLY hate, it's wildfires (and especially wildfire smoke.) Years ago, my Middle Son ended up in the ICU thanks to a nearby wildfire.The smoke filled the valley, and also filled his lungs.   Later, our state was full of California's wildfire smoke. I live thousands of miles away - but smoke doesn't stop at state lines.  I was caught outside when the smoke rolled into the valley and despite starting breathing treatments (and taking my daily, controller inhalers), I ended up in the ER with a bad asthma flare.   In the 2023, the East Coast of the U.S. was inundated with wildfire smoke from Canada.   It can literally happen anywhere and affect anyone. How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke  Stay indoors  Keep windows and doors closed at all times  Make sure your HVAC filter is clean so it can filter the outside air If driving, use the "recirculating air" setting on your car's AC Use air cleaners in your home Sometimes, smoke can stil