Bend doctor warns wildfire smoke can harm more than your lungs

(KTVZ) -- Poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke in Central Oregon is leading to significant health concerns, according to Saint Charles' Head of Pulmonary Medicine. This includes severe and persistent coughs in otherwise healthy individuals and a heightened risk of cardiac events.

Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles that can enter the lungs and then the bloodstream. Health officials are currently studying the rising exposure to this smoke, which even with minor contact, can cause irritated eyes, sore throats or a feeling similar to a hangover.

Ian Smith, Head of Pulmonary Medicine at Saint Charles, emphasized the seriousness of prolonged exposure.

“In population that have been studied in high wildfire smoke areas, some of the concerns are actually around cardiac events that can be precipitated by the inflammatory state, that that is induced by breathing particulate matter and and having it actually enter the bloodstream and go to your heart,” Smith said.

The best way to protect health is to avoid exposure to the smoke. Officials recommend sealing homes day and night to prevent smoke from entering. For those who must spend time outdoors, wearing an N-95 mask is advised. Surgical and cloth masks are not considered effective for filtering wildfire smoke particles.

Individuals experiencing prolonged uncontrollable coughing should seek medical attention from a doctor.