Free CME, CNE, and CEU for Health Professionals Wildfire Smoke and Your Patients' Health Wildfires are increasing in size and intensity, a trend that is expected to continue. Learn about the health effects associated with wildfire smoke and steps patients should take before and during a wildfire to reduce smoke exposure. Reducing smoke exposure is especially important for people with respiratory or cardiovascular disease, older adults, and children. www.epa.gov/wildfire-smoke-course United States Environmental Protection iAgency EPA-452/F-19-003 ------- Use the Air Quality Index to know when to reduce your exposure. Good Moderate 51-100 Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups 101-150 Unhealthy 151-200 Very Unhealthy 201-300 Hazardous 301 + Effects of Short-Term Smoke Exposure Irritation of the eyes and respiratory tract Respiratory symptoms • Coughing • Phlegm • Wheezing • Difficulty breathing Respiratory effects • Bronchitis • Reduced lung function • Increased aggravation of asthma and other lung diseases • Increased emergency room visits and hospital admissions Cardiovascular effects • Heart failure • Heart attack • Stroke • Increased emergency room visits and hospital admissions Increased risk of premature death ------- |