PEORIA (25News Now) — Hazy skies are expected to linger over the next few days due to smoke from wildfires in western Canada, prompting health experts to issue warnings for vulnerable groups.
The tiny particles in the smoke can penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, eye irritation, shortness of breath, and sore throats.
Dr. Ravi Kashyip, a pulmonologist at Carle Health, advised those with heart conditions, the elderly, children, and pregnant women to limit outdoor activities. He explained that prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke could lead to more severe, long-term health effects, including lung damage, heart problems, and an increased risk of stroke. Pregnant women, in particular, could face additional risks.
Brian Curtis, Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at OSF, emphasized that individuals with chronic health issues, such as asthma and COPD, should also be extra cautious. These conditions already compromise lung function, making individuals more vulnerable to the effects of smoke.
This year, nearly 1,800 wildfires have been tracked in Canada, burning across 6.5 million acres. The National Weather Service has forecast air quality levels to remain at Level 2, which is considered acceptable, but sensitive groups may still experience health effects.
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