Wildfire smoke presents health hazard

In this video, Gopal Allada, M.D., shares information about wildfire smoke inhalation and its effects on the body. (OHSU/Christine Torres Hicks)

Where there’s fire, there’s smoke. And when it comes to protecting your lungs during wildfire season, an Oregon Health & Science University pulmonologist says the best thing people can do is to limit their exposure to unhealthy air caused by wildfires.

In the midst of another warm, dry summer, wildfires have become an increasingly prevalent fact of life across Oregon.

“As the frequency and duration of wildfire smoke in our air becomes more prominent, more and more groups will be at risk for chronic health issues,” said Gopal Allada, M.D., associate professor of medicine (pulmonary and critical care) in the OHSU School of Medicine.

In the accompanying video interview, Allada highlights the health danger posed by wildfire smoke and straightforward measures people can take to minimize the risk — starting by staying indoors if at all possible. He said it’s especially important to limit exposure for infants, older adults and people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis.

Allada has treated patients at OHSU for 20 years and has observed the trend of seasonal health complications clearly worsening over that time with a warming climate.

“We are seeing a difference in the clinics,” he said. “The call frequency in our clinics increases during wildfire season, which validates the importance of taking preventive measures to stay safe.”

Q: Why is wildfire smoke bad for my health?

A: Wildfire smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plants. Smoke can irritate sinuses and lungs, and is known to trigger exacerbations in patients with underlying lung disease such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis. Your risk depends on the amount and length of time you are exposed, as well as your overall general health.

Q: Why should I be concerned about particulate matter?

A: The particulate matter in wildfire smoke poses the biggest risk to your health. Particles larger than 10 micrometers irritate your eyes, sinuses and throat. However, particles around 2.5 micrometers are inhaled all the way into your lungs and trigger inflammation. The size of the particle matters because you must have the right protective wear to prevent these super small-sized particles from causing harm.

Q: How can I protect myself from smoke?

A: Here are some strategies to help:

Q: Should I wear a mask/respirator? What type will protect me best?

A: Remember that staying away from smoke is the best protection. If you’re looking to protect yourself with a mask, there are some that are more effective than others:

N95 or KN95 respirators -- An N95 respirator will filter 95% of smoke particles, though some gases can get through. It is one of the best available masks if fitted and worn properly.

Well-fitted KN95 respirators are likely to be as effective for wildfire smoke. Like N95s, they are intended to filter 95% of particles.

Unlike N95s, KN95s are not certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). The U.S. Centers for Disease Control notes that international standards may not be stringent as NIOSH’s, and may not provide the same level of protection.

“Dust” or “surgical” masks -- These masks are NOT designed to filter particulate matter that is harmful to your lungs, so they’re not recommended to protect against wildfire smoke.

Wet towel or bandana -- Like dust masks, these are not designed to prevent particulate matter from entering the lungs. They may help with your mouth and sinuses, but could give you a false sense of security for your lungs.