Effects of Air Quality on Your Respiratory Health

Have you heard about the WHO report that states around seven million people worldwide die from air pollution each year?

While Sandpoint is known for its beautiful scenery, air pollution is a growing threat. It can cause otherwise healthy people to experience awful symptoms.

What should residents know about air quality in Sandpoint?

Some common lung problems from pollution include the following:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

Over time, exposure to air pollution can lead to more severe health issues. For example, it can increase the risk of asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory diseases. In some cases, long-term exposure to air pollution can even cause lung cancer.

For people with asthma and other breathing issues, air pollution can be a significant trigger. Pollutants can make it harder to breathe and may require increased use of inhalers or other medications.

While everyone’s lungs suffer from pollution, the following people are at most risk:

• Children
• The elderly
• People with pre-existing wellness conditions

Sandpoint, like many other places, has its share of air pollution problems. Various factors contribute to this.

During certain times of the year, air pollution levels in Sandpoint can be particularly high. For instance, wildfires in the region can create a lot of smoke. This smoke can travel long distances and significantly affect air quality in Sandpoint.

Another source of air pollution in Sandpoint is vehicle emissions. Industrial activities and construction work in Sandpoint can also contribute to poor air quality. Even healthy people can experience breathing difficulties when the air quality is bad.

Improving air quality is imperative for protecting your health. While natural disasters and industrial issues are impossible to control, individuals can do the following things to stay safe:

• Stay inside when air quality is bad
• Use air purifiers in the home
• Wear a mask designed outdoors to filter out small particles

Communities can also work together to plant more trees and green spaces. Supporting local policies aimed at reducing pollution and improving air quality can also make a big difference.

You can also try to use your car less by walking, cycling, or sharing rides whenever possible.

The environmental health of a population is closely tied to the air quality. Protecting the environment can help improve air quality and, in turn, protect your respiratory health. Supporting local efforts to reduce pollution and preserve natural areas is vital.

If you experience any negative wellness symptoms from air pollution, don’t wait to seek help from a Sandpoint medical clinic to get your health back on track.

Air quality in Sandpoint is something that all residents should be concerned about, especially during heavy wildfire season! Not only does it shape the area in a negative way, but it also takes a massive toll on the community’s wellness. Getting help for negative symptoms and taking steps to lower pollution is the best path forward.

Are you looking for a talented provider in Sandpoint? Schedule your appointment with Sandpoint Family Health Center. We strive to offer same-day appointments that are affordable and effective.