Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore During Poor Air Quality Warnings
When to Seek Emergency Care for Poor Air Quality Symptoms
Smoke from wildfires burning in Canada has begun drifting across parts of Texas. While much of the smoke is expected to remain high in the atmosphere, it may still contribute to air quality concerns in some areas when combined with residual smoke from East Texas burnings, Saharan dust, and other airborne particles. Knowing what to watch for can help you protect yourself and your loved ones during periods of poor air quality.
Why Poor Air Quality Is a Health Concern
Even when a wildfire is hundreds or thousands of miles away, smoke can travel long distances and affect air quality. Wildfire smoke contains fine particles and harmful gases that can irritate the lungs, place additional strain on the heart, and worsen existing health conditions. While smoke that remains high in the atmosphere is less likely to affect people at ground level, changing weather conditions can bring pollutants closer to the surface. Even healthy individuals can experience effects during periods of poor air quality when fine particles enter the eyes and respiratory system, causing burning or watery eyes, a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, and shortness of breath.
While current conditions in Texas are generally less severe than those reported in parts of the Northeast and Midwest, air quality can change as weather patterns shift. With Canadian wildfire smoke drifting across the state and residual smoke from burnings in East Texas persisting in some areas, knowing the symptoms associated with poor air quality can help you recognize when air pollution may be affecting your health and when medical attention may be necessary.
When to Seek Emergency Care for Poor Air Quality Symptoms
While mild symptoms may improve after reducing exposure and moving indoors, some poor air quality symptoms should never be ignored. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain, pressure, or tightness in chest
- Blue, gray, or pale lips or fingertips
- Confusion or difficulty staying awake
- Loss of consciousness
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Signs of a stroke
How Poor Air Quality Affects Asthma
Poor air quality can be especially dangerous for people living with asthma. Wildfire smoke, dust, and other airborne pollutants can irritate the airways and trigger asthma attacks, leading to wheezing, persistent coughing, chest tightness, and increased shortness of breath.
Because smoke exposure can quickly worsen asthma symptoms, individuals with asthma should closely monitor their condition during periods of poor air quality. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve with prescribed medications, seek medical attention immediately.
Open 24/7 — No Matter the Conditions Outside
At Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital, your health and safety are our top priorities. Whether you’re experiencing breathing difficulties, asthma flare-ups, persistent coughing, or other symptoms related to poor air quality, our experienced emergency team is here to provide prompt, compassionate care. If you are experiencing severe symptoms related to poor air quality, including exposure to wildfire smoke or other airborne pollutants, don’t wait to seek care. We’re here when you need us – open 24/7 with little to no wait.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Texarkana Emergency Center & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.