As wildfires force thousands of people from their homes across Southern California this week, even more SoCal residents are at risk of inhaling wildfire smoke.
Experts say wildfire smoke contains fine particles and toxic gases that can cause immediate and long-term health issues, especially for vulnerable groups.
“Even if you’re healthy, breathing in wildfire smoke can lead to coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, and other symptoms,” said Dr. May-Lin Wilgus, a pulmonologist at UCLA Health. “The amount of pollution released can be manyfold higher than the routine air pollution we’re exposed to from other sources.”
These fine particles, known as particulate matter, are especially dangerous because they’re small enough to get deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream.
“These super fine particles can travel into the smaller airways, causing irritation and inflammation, and can also be absorbed into the bloodstream, causing inflammation in the entire body,” Wilgus said.
Dr. Clayton Cowl from the Mayo Clinic says people with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions are at higher risk.
“Wildfire smoke can trigger asthma attacks and even heart issues in people with chronic conditions,” he wrote in a 2023 post.
Even for healthy individuals, experts say long-term exposure to wildfire smoke can cause serious damage to your lungs.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued an Air Quality Alert due to smoke from the Line Fire, Bridge Fire and Airport Fire. Unhealthy air pollution levels were detected in areas of San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles counties.
The best way to protect yourself?
Experts recommend staying indoors when the air quality is poor, using air purifiers, and wearing N95 masks if you need to go outside.