Asthma can be challenging to manage on a regular day, but it becomes even more difficult during environmental events like wildfires and dust storms (also called haboobs).
If you or a loved one has asthma, it’s important to know how to protect your lungs from harmful smoke and dust. Here are some steps to help you breathe easier during these times.
Understanding the risks
Wildfires and dust storms (haboobs) can release large amounts of smoke, ash and dust into the air.
Smoke from wildfires contains a mix of gases and fine particles from burning trees, buildings, homes and other materials. Dust storms, common in dry, desert areas, carry dirt and other fine particles that can travel for miles.
“These particles and changes to air quality can irritate the airways of the lungs and make it harder for people with asthma to breathe,” said Cameron Dick, MD, a pulmonologist with Banner – University Medicine. “This airway reactivity results from airway inflammation that can be allergic or non-allergic. Part of the goal of maintenance therapy is to minimize this reactivity to changes in air quality.”
Asthma symptoms can range from mild to severe and sometimes lead to asthma attacks, where breathing can become more difficult and life-threatening.
Preparation before wildfires and dust storms
Asthma can make everyday life a challenge. However, managing symptoms can become more complex when wildfires or dust storms strike. Here are some tips to be proactive and prepared:
Create an asthma action plan
Work with your health care provider to create or update your asthma action plan. This plan should outline how to manage your asthma daily and what to do if symptoms worsen. It usually starts with inhaled steroids and long-acting medications (bronchodilators) to keep the airways open.
“Asthma management plans depend on how sensitive a patient is to the environment,” Dr. Dick said. “Increasing rescue inhaler requirements is usually an indication of suboptimal control of airway inflammation and indicates the need for additional maintenance therapy to control asthma symptoms.”
There are also several special injectable medications (biologics) that have greatly improved asthma treatment and control for many people.
Stock up on medications
Make sure you have enough asthma medications, including quick-relief inhalers and long-term control medications. Keep extra inhalers at home, work and in your car.
“Rescue inhalers are devices used to relieve asthma symptoms quickly,” Dr. Dick said. “They contain short-acting bronchodilators, such as albuterol, which help open up the airways in the lungs, making breathing easier.”
Name brands include Ventolin, Proventil and ProAir. Generic medications can also be found at the pharmacy.
Put together an emergency kit
Prepare a kit with your asthma action plan, medications, a peak flow meter, N95 or P100 masks and non-perishable food and water.
Stay weather aware
Listen to weather reports and warnings about dust storms, air quality and wildfires in your area.
During wildfires and dust storms
If a dust storm or wildfire occurs, here are some additional tips for managing your asthma:
- Stay informed: Keep track of air quality where you are. “Real-time updates on air quality in your area can be found on internet searches, the local media or apps like AirNow,” Dr. Dick said. Sign up for alerts from local departments or weather services. Follow advisories or evacuation orders issued by local officials.
- Limit outdoor activities: If the air quality is unhealthy, stay indoors. Avoid doing strenuous activities or exercise when air quality is poor. If you must go out, wear a mask.
- Keep indoor air clean: Close windows and doors to keep out polluted air. Avoid activities that make indoor air worse, like smoking or frying foods.
- Follow your asthma action plan: Take your medications as directed and use your rescue inhaler at the first sign of symptoms. If you use a peak flow meter, check your peak flow readings and follow your plan if your readings drop. “The need and frequency of use of rescue inhalers can be an indication of underlying control of asthma,” Dr. Dick said. “Those who are not under good control and require more rescue inhaler use or are more sensitive to the environment often need more help.”
- Stay hydrated: Drink lots of water to keep your airways moist and reduce the impact of pollutants.
After wildfires and dust storms
When the wildfire or dust storm has passed and the air begin to clear, it is still important to be careful and take precautions.
- Clean your living space: Regularly dust, clean surfaces and vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor dust and allergens. Use a damp cloth to avoid stirring up dust.
- Follow up with your health care provider: Check in with your provider to review your asthma management plan and discuss any new or worsening symptoms.
What to do in an emergency
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, an asthma attack can still happen. Here’s what to do:
- Follow your asthma management plan for escalating care.
- Use your rescue inhaler as directed.
- Sit upright to help make breathing easier.
- If your symptoms don’t improve after using your inhaler, call your provider or 911.
Conclusion
Managing asthma takes careful planning, especially during wildfires and dust storms. By preparing ahead of time, staying informed and following these tips, you can reduce the risk of asthma flare-ups and stay healthy.
Always see your health care provider or a Banner Health specialist for questions or concerns. Stay safe and breathe easy!
