Clearfield, PA — Dr. Mahrdad Ghaffari, head of Pulmonology at UPMC Altoona, said the burning wildfires in Canada are becoming a hazard to our air quality.
"These are very fine particles, carbon monoxide, nitrogen that come to our area and that can be dangerous for people who already have lung diseases," he said.
He said this can impact those with respiratory issues, like asthma COPD or any heart condition, " You may feel like your breathing isn't good, you feel like you're in the center of a big city and the air isn't as good when you're breathing."
Dr. Ghaffari said shortness of breath is the most common symptom of air quality impacting your health.
He recommends you to not go outside if you have respiratory issues but if you do be prepared with your inhaler.
It's also important to check the air quality index on your phone before heading outdoors.
"The air quality index comes color coded the best is green and as it gets more red it's more dangerous and hazardous," said Dr.Ghaffari,
Dr. Ghaffari said this poor air quality may go on for days so be cautious.
ncG1vNJzZmivmpawtcKNnKamZ56axLR7y6iamqRfmK6vrcOimKdlp565pbLIq5ysZZmivaKv06KloGWRnr9uvdSao6KsqWK2r3nPnqWnq6mhw6K6yJo%3D