PATIENT RESOURCE
Wildfire Smoke & Your Health
Written by Ayla Wolf, DAOMDoctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine with advanced training in applied clinical neuroscience.
Read Dr. Wolf’s full bio →Understanding the health risks of wildfire smoke in the Twin Cities — and how to protect your respiratory system during poor air quality.
As devastating wildfires continue to ravage our country and Canada, the far-reaching impact extends beyond the flames themselves. The smoke poses a significant health risk to communities hundreds of miles away, as many of us in the Twin Cities area have experienced. Here we explore the negative health effects of wildfire smoke and what you can do to protect yourself.
Inhalation Hazards: PM2.5
When wildfires burn, they release fine particulate matter (PM2.5) — particles less than 2.5 micrometers that penetrate deep into the respiratory system:
- Respiratory Issues: Triggers or worsens asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. Many people who experienced respiratory distress from COVID-19 are seeing a resurgence of symptoms with wildfire smoke exposure.
- Cardiovascular Complications: PM2.5 enters the bloodstream through the lungs, increasing risk of heart attacks, strokes, elevated blood pressure, and irregular heartbeat.
Harmful Chemicals in Wildfire Smoke
Vulnerable Populations
- Children — developing respiratory systems, breathe more air relative to body weight
- Elderly — pre-existing heart or lung conditions, slower recovery
- Individuals with chronic conditions — respiratory diseases, cardiovascular issues, neurological disorders, or compromised immune systems
Protecting Your Lungs
Herbal Support for Respiratory Health
Our clinic carries herbal formulas specifically designed to support the respiratory system:
AirGen
Reduces inflammation in the pharynx, larynx, and trachea. Promotes blood flow to the upper respiratory tract and repairs damaged tissue.
EzAir
Restores the inner lining of the respiratory tract to avoid over-reactions to irritants. Helpful for people whose asthma has increased from wildfire smoke.
Breez
Alleviates blood vessel restriction and resumes normal blood flow to upper body muscles. Improves physical endurance that declined from poor lung function.
Key Takeaways
- PM2.5 particles penetrate deep into lungs and bloodstream
- Wildfire smoke contains carbon monoxide, VOCs, and carcinogens
- People with COVID-related lung damage are especially vulnerable
- HEPA air purifiers are essential during smoke events
- Herbal formulas can reduce respiratory inflammation
- Monitor AQI daily at airnow.gov during wildfire season