Protecting Your Health During Wildfires: Tips for Respiratory and Immune Wellness

The recent and ongoing wildfires in the Los Angeles area can severely impact air quality, posing significant health risks, especially to the respiratory system. Protecting your health during these times is essential. Here are practical tips to help safeguard your well-being:

Stay Indoors

Limit outdoor activities, especially if you notice visible smoke or experience poor air quality. Keep windows and doors closed, and use weather stripping to seal any gaps.

Use Air Purifiers

Invest in a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter to reduce indoor air pollution. Ensure your HVAC system is equipped with proper filters, and avoid activities like vacuuming that may stir up particles.

Wear a Proper Mask

If you must go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask to filter out harmful particles. Regular cloth or surgical masks are not effective at filtering wildfire smoke.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to keep your respiratory system hydrated and help your body flush out toxins. Herbal teas with anti-inflammatory properties, such as peppermint, chrysanthemum, or Detox Tea, can be soothing.

Protect Vulnerable Groups

Children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma are at greater risk. Ensure they remain indoors, monitor their symptoms, and contact a healthcare provider if needed.

Use a Nasal Spray

A saline spray can help rinse out particles and keep nasal passages moist, reducing irritation from smoke exposure. If that doesn't work, contact our office for an herbal nasal spray. 

Eat and Take Anti-Inflammatory Foods and Herbs

To support your respiratory and immune systems, incorporate foods rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and Quercetin.

Create a Clean Room

Designate a room in your home with minimal windows and doors where you can use an air purifier and keep the air as clean as possible.

Monitor Air Quality

Stay updated on air quality levels using apps or websites like AirNow.gov. Avoid outdoor activities when the Air Quality Index (AQI) is unhealthy.

Practice Breathing Exercises

Engage in gentle breathing exercises like diaphragmatic breathing to help your lungs remain healthy. Try Self Healing Qi Gong. Avoid strenuous activities that can strain your respiratory system during poor air quality days.

By taking these steps, you can protect your health and maintain respiratory wellness during wildfire season. If you experience persistent symptoms such as coughing, difficulty breathing, or chest pain, seek medical attention promptly.