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Outdoor Air Pollution

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CLIMATE AND OUTDOOR AIR POLLUTION

There is no doubt that climate plays an important role in inducing or exacerbating asthma and allergy symptoms. High humidity, sudden temperature changes (especially from warm to cold), and decreases in barometric pressure all have adverse effects on allergy and asthma sufferers. Damp conditions encourage the growth of mold and dust mites.

Families often are advised to move to a more favorable climate, if possible, although there is no hard evidence that such relocations help.

Smog is another factor over which we have little control. In warm, sunny climates (eg, Los Angeles), heavy traffic creates a smog composed mainly of ozone, nitrogen dioxide, and petroleum-produced chemicals called hydrocarbons. Industrial cities produce their particular brand of smog. Whatever its composition, smog causes eye irritation, breathing problems, and fatigue as well as other symptoms.

The following are guidelines for coping with air pollution. They are especially relevant for asthmatics, who tend to be more adversely affected by air pollution and climatic changes.


COPING WITH AIR POLLUTION

  • Stay indoors in a clean environment as much as

  • possible.

  • Use air conditioners, air filters, electrostatic furnace

  • filters, or any other device that helps purify the air.

  • Avoid smoke-filled rooms and exposure to dust and other irritants, such as paint fumes, hair spray, and so on.

  • Avoid unnecessary physical activity.

  • If pollution is predicted to worsen and remain severe for a prolonged period, consider leaving the area if circumstances permit doing so.

  • Keep emergency telephone numbers handy in case of a medical emergency.

  • Have a face mask available. Pharmacists generally stock them.

The asthmatic is more sensitive to the outside environment. Climatic changes, "the greenhouse effect," and global air pollution are now being taken seriously by our political leaders. We hope that, in this new century, we will see responsible leadership in protecting our precious planet and its inhabitants.

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Allergy Facts:

Pollen allergy (hay fever or allergic rhinitis) affects nearly 10 percent of the people in the US (26 million people), not including those with asthma.


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This Page Last Revised: 4/3/2009