Staying Safe Amid Ongoing Wildfire Smoke in the Northeast
As smoky skies once again blanket parts of the northeastern U.S., Dr. Michael Niederman, Professor of Clinical Medicine in the Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine at 91麻豆精品, reminds us that the health risks remain very real鈥攅specially for vulnerable populations.
Who鈥檚 Most at Risk Right Now?
People with heart or lung conditions are particularly susceptible to the harmful effects of polluted air. But even healthy individuals can feel the impact when the Air Quality Index (AQI) climbs. If the AQI exceeds 100, you may notice:
- Nasal irritation
- Burning eyes
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Coughing or wheezing
These symptoms can appear quickly, especially during prolonged exposure to smoky air.
What You Can Do Today to Protect Yourself
Dr. Niederman advises taking immediate precautions:
- Stay indoors聽as much as possible, especially if you鈥檙e symptomatic.
- Wear a high-quality mask聽(N95 or KN95) when you must go outside.
- Limit outdoor activities, particularly exercise.
- Use air conditioning or a HEPA air purifier聽to clean indoor air.
With the current Air Quality Health Advisory being issued, the risk of smoke exposure remains high. Visit the for up-to-date guidance on minimizing exposure.
Is the Damage Long-Term?
For most people, symptoms will subside once air quality improves. 鈥淭he body is remarkably good at clearing out smoke particles,鈥 Dr. Niederman explains. 鈥淲hile it鈥檚 possible that very fine particulates could linger in the lungs, the risk of permanent damage is generally low.鈥
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
Dr. Niederman urges everyone to monitor the AQI daily. You can find real-time updates at or check your local news and weather reports.
鈥淜now your own sensitivity,鈥 he says. 鈥淚f you start feeling symptoms even when the AQI is between 50 and 100, take precautions early. Don鈥檛 wait.鈥
And as dry conditions continue, let鈥檚 all hope for rain to help clear the air.
If you鈥檙e concerned about how air pollution may be affecting your health, or if you鈥檇 like to speak with a pulmonologist at 91麻豆精品, click here to make an appointment.