The recent wildfires in southern California have left behind smoky, particle-filled air that is potentially dangerous to residents, particularly those with breathing problems like asthma. In fact, the disaster highlights the need for practicing good preventative behavior to protect your lungs during times when air quality deteriorates because of smoke and ash.

Mostly, experts recommend staying indoors, running the air conditioner with the doors and windows shut, and avoiding exercise outside. Both these measures will keep too much smoke from entering your lungs.

Beyond those steps, the American Lung Association of California recommends the following:

1. If you travel outside in an affected area, use a damp cloth over your nose and mouth as an air filter.

2. �Optimize� your asthma medications, and call the doctor with any questions about changing dosages or if you cannot find symptom relief.

3. If you're on oxygen, do NOT adjust your intake level without calling the doctor.

4. Remember that if you breathe in smoke, you may not notice symptoms until up to 48 hours after exposure.

5. Don't help clean if you can see dust or soot. These can lodge in the airways and cause major flares.

In addition, people in affected areas can keep track of local conditions with these links:

MODIS Active Fire Mapping Program
From the USDA Forest Service with data provided by the National Interagency Fire Center, these maps track wildfires in the U.S. and Canada. Updated on Fridays�or sooner, during fires.

AIRNow Air Quality Forecast Map
Shows areas of concern in the U.S. and includes links to particle and ozone maps. Also contains information about wildfires.


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"Smile, breathe and go slowly." -Thich Nhat Hanh



This article is not written by a medical professional, and information on this page should never be substituted for your physician's advice. If you have any questions about your asthma and/or allergies, you should always contact your physician first.