Asthma And The Air We Breathe

Air quality can negatively impact one’s health. Those with asthma need to closely monitor air quality, especially during the summer months.

Ground-level ozone occurs when gases emitted from cars and factories interact with sunlight. Ozone is typically at its highest during the summer months, when there is more sunshine and air is more stagnant.

This gas, which is one of the most common air pollutants, can trigger asthma attacks. Research shows that ozone concentration is directly related to asthma attacks and increases the need for increased asthma drug dosages and emergency treatments.

Airborne particles can also trigger asthma attacks and cause serious air quality issues. Airborne particles are tiny particles found in haze, smoke and dust and can easily make their way into your respiratory system.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) reports the amount of pollutants in the air and how healthy the air is to breathe. If you have asthma, an AQI of 101 of higher means that you are at risk for air quality-induced asthma attacks. An AQI of 51 to 100 can intensify asthma symptoms. If the air quality is dangerous, limit your time outdoors and do not exercise outdoors. Make sure you have your medication handy and stay in a well-ventilated, air-conditioned place.

Source: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
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Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons, Smog in Salt Lake City