All articles tagged with #respiratory issues
Sleeping with the AC on may be comfortable, but it can pose health risks such as skin dryness, respiratory irritation, immune fatigue, joint stiffness, disrupted sleep, and microbiome imbalance, which could impact overall well-being over time.
Blank Children’s Hospital in Des Moines, Iowa, is facing a shortage of beds due to a surge in hospitalizations of children with respiratory issues, including flu, RSV, and other illnesses. The CDC reports an increase in COVID-19, flu, and RSV cases among children under four years old compared to last year. Doctor Joel Waddell attributes the severity of cases to reduced immune system exposure during COVID-19 quarantine and advises ensuring children's vaccinations are up-to-date while keeping sick children at home.
Passive smoking, also known as secondhand smoke, poses various health risks including respiratory issues, increased risk of lung cancer, heart disease, childhood health complications, increased risk of stroke, adverse effects on mental health, and deterioration of dental health. Nonsmokers exposed to secondhand smoke are at risk of developing respiratory problems, lung cancer, heart disease, and children are particularly vulnerable to health complications.
While candles can create a cozy ambiance, healthcare providers say that the negative impact on health is often overhyped. The biggest concern is the risk of starting a fire, which can lead to burns or even death. Some candles may contain lead wicks or carcinogenic dyes, and certain individuals may be allergic to fragrances emitted from candles. Additionally, combining aerosolized sprays or nail polish remover with candles can be dangerous. Burn injuries can range from first-degree burns to third-degree burns, which often require surgery and can have long-term consequences. LED candles and candles within enclosures are safer alternatives. In the event of a fire, it is important to have working smoke detectors, a fire extinguisher, and to prioritize personal safety.
Bacteria-containing dust found at day care centers could increase the risk of asthma in children, according to a study presented at the European Respiratory Society International Congress. The study analyzed dust samples from 103 day care facilities in Paris and found that one type of bacteria was linked to a higher risk of wheezing, a precursor to asthma in children under 3 years old. The researchers emphasized the need to investigate indoor air quality at day care centers and suggested keeping rooms clean, well-ventilated, and monitoring indoor air quality to minimize the risk of respiratory issues in children.
Common cleaning products such as sprays, stain removers, and air fresheners may release hazardous chemicals that can pose risks to respiratory health and increase the risk of cancer. A study conducted by the Environmental Working Group found that eco-friendly and unscented products emitted fewer risky chemicals compared to conventional counterparts. Products labeled as both "green" and "fragrance-free" produced the fewest fumes. Choosing environmentally friendly and unscented cleaning products can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals and protect women's and children's health.
Swine flu has been detected in pigs at the Oakland County Fair in Michigan, prompting the closure of the swine barn. Fairgoers who may have been exposed to the virus are urged to watch for respiratory issues. Swine flu symptoms in humans are similar to seasonal flu symptoms, and high-risk groups include children under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems. Precautions advised by health officials include avoiding contact with pigs, refraining from eating or drinking in livestock areas, and practicing good hygiene such as washing hands frequently.
Air quality in Chicago remains at unhealthy levels for the third consecutive day due to smoke from wildfires in Canada. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and wear masks for protection. Many events have been canceled or moved indoors, and summer camps and parks have been affected. Officials are monitoring the situation and recommend taking precautions, such as using N95 masks and reducing exposure for vulnerable individuals. The city has opened respite centers for those without access to safe indoor areas.
Physicians in Madison, Wisconsin, are expressing concerns about the current air quality and its impact on health. Patients with underlying respiratory or cardiovascular issues may experience worsened symptoms, with some even requiring emergency room visits. The fine particulate matter in the air can cause irritation in the eyes, throat, and lungs, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. People of all ages are affected, and individuals are advised to stay indoors until the air quality improves. Wearing an N95 mask is recommended for those who need to go outside.
Milwaukee is experiencing a "perfect storm" of atmospheric events that took it into uncharted territory Tuesday with its worsening air quality. Smoke from Canadian wildfires blanketed the state, causing the air quality to become "very unhealthy" for everyone. The city of Milwaukee's air quality was among the worst in the country and the world. The Wisconsin DNR recommends staying indoors, closing windows and doors, and using an indoor air purifier to protect oneself from the wildfire smoke. Milwaukee County Emergency Services has received double the typical amount of calls for respiratory issues over the last 72 hours.
A Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been issued for metro Atlanta due to unhealthy air quality for sensitive groups caused by ozone. People with respiratory issues, children, teens, and older adults should limit outdoor exertion. The AQI value is between 101 to 150, and a healthy AQI value is 50 or below. The alert is not due to the smoke from the recent Canadian wildfires.
An Air Quality Alert is in effect for all of Southeast Lower Michigan through Thursday, with the region currently at an unhealthy level for sensitive individuals. Seniors with respiratory issues and/or asthma are advised to stay indoors and take precautions such as keeping windows closed, changing furnace filters, and using air purifiers. The weekend forecast calls for sunshine and dry weather through Saturday, followed by rain for the second half of the weekend.
As Canadian wildfires cause poor air quality in parts of the US, pet owners are advised to keep their pets indoors as much as possible and limit outdoor time to short bathroom breaks only. Signs of distress in pets include increased breathing rate, coughing, sneezing, and red or running eyes. Brachycephalic dog breeds and pets with respiratory conditions are more susceptible to negative consequences from poor air quality. Pet owners should also consider using HEPA filters and providing indoor stimulation for their pets. In case of evacuation, pet owners should have a plan and a pet evacuation kit ready.
The air quality in New York City and parts of the Tri-State area has reached dangerous levels due to smoke from intense Canadian wildfires. At least 160 fires are burning in Quebec alone, which is about 400 miles north of New York City. The National Weather Service has issued an Air Quality Alert for the region, warning that air pollution concentration will be unhealthy for people with heart or lung disease, children, and adults over 65. New York City schools remain open, but outdoor activities have been limited. The smoky skies are the result of more than 160 forest fires burning in Quebec during what federal officials say is shaping up to be among Canada's worst fire seasons ever.
The National Weather Service issued an Air Quality Alert for New York City and parts of the Tri-State area due to smoke from the Canadian wildfires. The smoke is making skies hazy and potentially dangerous, especially for people with respiratory issues. A Red Flag Warning has also been issued for parts of New Jersey, as lightning from isolated thunderstorms could ignite new wildfires. The air quality alert means air pollution concentration in the region will be unhealthy for people with heart or lung disease, children, and adults over 65.