Pollution Advisory for the Valley - Phoenix Pollution Levels Exceed the Federal Health Standard for Air Quality
For people with health issues, poor air quality makes it difficult to breathe outside, and it can have an impact on healthy people too!
Poor air quality affects those who have lung issues, but healthy individuals are also starting to feel the effects of our bad air. Some may experience congestion, irritated eyes, or a sore throat. Air with particulates, smoke remnants, and ozone can start taking a toll on healthy people as well.
Dr. Lauren Glenn, a naturopathic physician, stated that “It impacts everybody, and some people's bodies notice it a little bit more, so we're all breathing it in.” Unfortunately, Phoenix residents have been breathing bad air for a while. “The Maricopa County Air Quality Department says since July 9, Maricopa County has had an air quality pollution alert every day.”
Dr. Glenn also observed that some healthy people might notice a difference. “Other people, also healthy, might notice ‘oh I've got some chest tightness, a little harder time catching my breath,’ even though they don't have a diagnosis of asthma or allergy,” said Dr. Glenn. “Some people are going to be more sensitive.”
So, what can you do about it?
Dr. Glenn suggests that people who want to exercise should do it indoors instead of outside. She also warns that over the counter allergy medication hide symptoms, although it may be safe to take them for a short term. “It depends on how long we've got this situation floating around,” said Dr. Glenn. “If its just a day or two, take an antihistamine right, but if it's going to be going on for weeks or months, we might want to start thinking about building the body back up and being more protective.” For Dr. Glenn, this means eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.To learn about how BrightStar Care of Phoenix and Tempe supports and cares for people living with respiratory illness and lung disease at home, please visit our website.
Source: http://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/arizona-news/even-healthy-people-are-noticing-effects-of-poor-air-quality