HELENA — Thursday kicked off with an increase in patients checking in at St. Peter’s Health due to wildfire smoke.
Recent wildfires have caused poorer air quality in the valley and immunologists are giving out some prescribed suggestions.
Toxins in the air can cause those who suffer with preexisting conditions like Asthma can increase symptoms of toxic smoke inhalation. Wheezing, chest pains, and shortness of breath are all tall-tale signs of smoke inhalation.
Those who have stated medical conditions are advised to make sure their doors and windows are sealed; the toxins from the smoke outside can fill houses, causing trouble breathing, especially during sleep.
Dr. Summer Monforte, Immunologist at St. Pete’s said that people should consider getting air filters for their bedrooms to clear toxins from their homes.
“Forrest fire smoke is not good for anyone and the more if it that’s in the air, the ore toxic and poisonous it is, but for people with chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma are more sensitive, so even to cause other people problems it can trigger exacerbation's of their respiratory conditions. So, I’ve seen a lot more asthmatics,” said Dr. Monforte.
Children are not exempt and will often try and fight through their health conditions to participate in school and recreational summer sports.
Dr. Monforte recommends restricting too much physical activities in children (especially), until the air clears.
For more information on Wildfire smoke and health hazards please visit: www.montanawildfiresmoke.org
