Symptoms and Effects of Wildfire Smoke Exposure

In the short term, wildfire smoke can cause illness due to harmful particulate matter and toxic gases that irritate the respiratory system. It contains pollutants like carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Effects depend on exposure duration, pollutant concentration, and individual health. Vulnerable groups, such as children, the elderly, and pregnant women, are at higher risk. Public health officials often advise limiting outdoor activities and taking protective measures during wildfires. Taking precautions is crucial to protect health.

The Centers for Disease Control states that breathing in smoke can affect you right away, causing:

• Coughing

• Trouble breathing

• Wheezing

• Asthma attacks

• Stinging eyes

• Scratchy throat

• Runny nose

• Irritated sinuses

• Headaches

• Tiredness

• Chest pain

• Fast heartbeat

Long-term exposure to wildfire smoke poses serious health risks, containing pollutants like particulate matter, carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds, and toxic chemicals. These can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream, causing respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and chronic health conditions. People with existing health issues, such as asthma or heart disease, may face worsened symptoms and higher hospitalization rates. Research links prolonged smoke exposure to chronic respiratory diseases, reduced lung function, and cognitive decline, especially in vulnerable groups like children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. It is crucial for residents in wildfire-prone areas to reduce smoke exposure and monitor air quality.

The World Health Organization states that, worldwide, ambient air pollution accounts for:

9% of deaths and disease from lung cancer

17% of deaths and disease from acute lower respiratory infection

24% of deaths from stroke

25% of deaths and disease from ischemic heart disease

43% of deaths and disease from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

• The combined effects of ambient and household air pollution exposure cause about 7 million premature deaths every year from the above diseases.

• Almost all of the global population (99%) are exposed to air pollution levels that exceed the safe WHO guideline level for fine particulate matter ( PM 2.5 µg/m3).