Stay Healthy During the Fires

Local air quality ratings range from "Hazardous" in the foothill burn areas to "Unhealthy" in the San Fernando Valley. Brief exposure to smoke and ash from the wildfires can irritate your nose, throat and sinuses. Prolonged exposure could result in decreased lung function, making you susceptible to asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and even some cancers.

Keep yourself and your family safe by following these tips:

* Stay inside and keep windows and doors closed.

* Use an air conditioner with a re-circulating option. If your air conditioner only pulls air from the outside, try using indoor fans instead, or opt to spend the day in an air conditioned public place.

* If you must go outside, limit your activity. Participating in sports or strenuous activities will make you breathe harder, increasing the amount of harmful particles you ingest. Wearing a mask can protect you from larger particles but not from smaller, more dangerous ones or toxic gases.

* Drink plenty of water to help your body flush the extra toxins caused by smoke inhalation out of the body.

* Take double doses of Antioxidant Vitamins A, C, E, Zinc. Give children vitamin C as well. These vitamins neutralize toxins and prevent cellular damage.* Take Detoxifying herbs or do a Foot Detox to further assist the body in detoxification.

* Stay informed of the latest wildfire developments. Listen to your local radio and television newscasts or check their websites for updates on the fire's progress. Check for air quality alerts from AQMD.

Children and seniors are at a higher risk for injury or illness due to air pollution, therefore it is even more important to be mindful of safety precautions for these groups.

Call your doctor immediately or go to an urgent care facility if you experience symptoms of serious illness, such as:

* severe coughing
* shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
* wheezing
* chest tightness or pain
* palpitations
* nausea
* unusual fatigue or lightheadedness

We pray that the fires are contained soon. In the meantime we are here to support our patients and our community.

Yours in health,

Dr. Heidi & Staff