Ozone Alerts Mean Trouble

Fourth of July weekend kicked off a spell of very hot, humid weather here in the Northeast, prompting air quality alerts in many areas. Poor air quality can be a problem for anyone with asthma.

During the summer months, certain weather conditions can combine with pollution emissions to form high levels of ozone close to the earth’s surface. High temperatures, light wind, no rain and wind direction can combine to cause ozone levels in excess of federal safety standards. Ozone causes constriction of the airways, resulting in increased coughing, sore throat, wheezing and uncomfortable breathing. It can also increase a person’s sensitivity to allergens.

Weather experts forecast air pollution levels each day, reporting the Air Quality Index (AQI) along with the weather. The AQI tells us how clean or polluted the ground level air is and how the levels could affect our health. AQI is divided into six color coded categories, ranging from good to hazardous. In New York, “orange alert” is the first level of poor air quality which can cause increased asthma symptoms. Orange alert is declared when the AQI is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, including young children, older adults, and people with asthma.

You can reduce your exposure to ozone and help keep your asthma under control by knowing the weather and air quality forecast each day. If an “alert” day is predicted, plan vigorous activities for the morning or for indoors. Take it easy if you must be outside. If your asthma acts up, slow down and change activities. Have your bronchodilator inhaler handy for quick relief if symptoms occur.