A Family Member HomeCare's Brian Gauthier Notes TCPalm.com Report and American Lung Association Warnings: Recent outbreak of Florida brush and forest fires is posing a significant health risk for the elderly
Brush fires throughout Florida are creating hazardous health conditions for the elderly and those with respiratory problems.
Physicians say smoke creating health hazard
By SAM YATES, a member of the Treasure Coast community. This story is neither endorsed by nor affiliated with this site.
June 16, 2011
PORT ST. LUCIE — The recent outbreak of brush and forest fires throughout Florida is posing a significant health risk for the elderly and those with chronic breathing problems. Physicians Immediate Care, one of the region’s premier providers of ambulatory and urgent health care, offers some tips for those at risk. According to Dr. Palestrant, “Certainly, for those at risk, the elderly and anyone with a chronic breathing problem, the best advice is to remain indoors when smoke from wildfires or other sources threaten.”
The American Lung Association expands on Dr. Palestrant’s advice with these tips:
•People living in close proximity to the fire-stricken areas should avoid inhalation of smoke, ashes, and particulate matter in the area. Ordinary dust masks, designed to filter out large particles, will not help as they still allow the more dangerous smaller particles to pass through. Special, more expensive dust masks with true HEPA filters will filter out the damaging fine particles but are difficult for people with lung disease to use. Consult with your physician before using a mask, especially if you have a lung disease.
•If you live close to or in the surrounding area, it's recommended that you refrain from exercising outdoors, especially if you smell smoke or notice eye or throat irritation.
•Extra precaution should be taken for children, who are more susceptible to smoke because their respiratory systems are still developing and they breathe in more air (and consequently more pollution) per pound of body mass than adults.
•When driving your car in smoky areas, keep your windows and vents closed. Air conditioning should only be operated in the "recirculate" setting.
Dr. Palestrant says people with respiratory problems and chronic heart disease should:
•Stay inside as much as possible, with doors, windows and fireplace dampers shut and preferably with clean air circulating through air conditioners and/or air cleaners. Use air conditioners on the recirculation setting so outside air will not be moved into the room.
Due to the higher levels of pollutants in some areas, there is a possibility of experiencing increased symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms, contact your physician. If you cannot, asthma patients can follow the asthma action plan developed with their physician. Use your peak flow meter if prescribed. Do not hesitate to take your medication, and avail yourself of the full spectrum of medications your doctor has prescribed to you.
•If outdoor trips in smoky areas are necessary, breathe through a damp cloth to help filter out particles in the air.
•People with asthma should check with their physician regarding any changes in medication that may be needed to cope with the smoky conditions.
•People using oxygen should not adjust their levels of intake before consulting a physician. (Call your doctor BEFORE you take any action.)
•If pulmonary symptoms are not relieved by the usual medicines, seek medical attention. Symptoms to watch for: wheezing, shortness of breath, difficulty taking a full breath, chest heaviness, light headedness, and dizziness.
•If you develop a persistent cough, or difficult or painful breathing, call Physicians Immediate Care right away. The onset of symptoms can appear as late as 24 to 48 hours after exposure. Remember that smoke can remain in areas for many days after the fires have ended.
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