Good sleep is such an important aspect of your mental and physical health. It is essential for cell repair and immune function. Quality sleep also keeps your mind sharp and ensures you feel rested when you wake up. Certain conditions can make it really tough to get a good night’s sleep. Asthma can have a serious impact on sleep if it is not well-managed. Even if it is, external factors can still affect your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. Below you will find more information on how the aftermath of wildfires affects asthma & sleep health.
How the Aftermaths of Wildfires Affect Asthma & Sleep Health
After a wildfire, sleep challenges can continue, especially for those with asthma. Children are especially vulnerable as their lungs are still developing. In serious cases, pediatric lung care may be needed due to the aftermath of wildfires. This is because the smoke, ash, and poor air quality can linger after the fire has been put out. Pollution can last for days, weeks, and even years. Those affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires are still struggling with the aftermath.
The Impact of Wildfires on Asthma
After a wildfire, small particles of smoke and ash are still in the air. This is the case even when the sky looks clear, and the particles settle. They can easily be swept back into the air. The particles from wildfires are so small that they can easily enter the lungs. This irritates the airways and can be especially impactful for those with asthma. In addition to the particles, the strong smell from the burned materials can irritate. Changes in humidity and temperature compound this.
Increased Asthma Symptoms
After a wildfire, people with asthma experience worsening asthma symptoms. This includes coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms are substantially worse for those who are not on an asthma treatment plan.
Increased Inflammation
Increased inflammation occurs after a wildfire due to poor air quality. The air contains the aftermath of the fire, including ash and chemicals from the burned materials. This may include wood, plastic, vegetation, and other materials. The chemicals easily inflamed the airway lining. When inflammation increases, symptoms can flare up stronger and more frequently.
Increased Risk for Asthma Attacks
Poor air quality can make the lungs much more reactive. This is especially true for those with asthma. After a wildfire, asthma attacks are much more common. It is critical to follow an asthma treatment plan if you live in an area impacted by wildfires. An asthma doctor for all ages can create a customized treatment plan based on your unique needs.
The Impact of Wildfires on Sleep
Your sleep health is impacted by air quality. This is because breathing is a major factor in getting quality sleep. When the air is polluted during or after a wildfire, the body has to work much harder. This can make it difficult to sleep and impact sleep quality.
Breathing Disruptions at Night
Indoor air quality is significantly impacted after a wildfire. Smoke particles linger in the air and get caught in your home’s soft surfaces. This ultimately irritates the nose, throat, and lungs. The irritation noticeably impacts sleep. This often leads to snoring, mouth breathing, or waking up coughing or gasping. These symptoms can make you feel tired, even if you have gotten enough sleep the night before. Breathing disruptions have a serious impact on sleep quality, especially for those with asthma.
Sleep Rhythm Disruptions
Wildfires change the environment at the fire site and the surrounding areas. People often keep their windows and doors closed to reduce exposure to pollution. However, ash, dust, and tiny particles can still get into your home. They can be carried in via your shoes, clothes, pets, and everyday movement in and out of your home. When these particles get into your home, they can trigger allergy-like symptoms. A scratchy throat, sneezing, runny nose, or itchy or watery eyes. This can lead to increased nighttime waking due to the irritation. This is especially impactful for those with asthma.
Increased Mental Health Issues
Wildfires can be overwhelming and cause excess stress. There are so many fears that accompany having a fire near your home. The fear of having to evacuate, your personal safety, and the risk of losing your home are massive. Increased fear releases stress hormones. This keeps your body more alert, making it extremely difficult to wind down. Increased stress and anxiety can make it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, and get good quality sleep. Some people even experience frequent nighttime wake-ups and nightmares.
Caring for Your Health After A Wildfire
You may feel like so much is out of your control when you are near a wildfire. However, there are several proactive steps you can take to protect your family’s health during and after a wildfire.
Focus on Indoor Air Quality
Keep your windows and doors closed during and after a wildfire. Be sure to check the air quality daily to understand your risk. This is especially necessary if you or your family members have respiratory issues. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters for added protection. Change your HVAC filters often. Focus on maintaining a clean household to improve indoor air quality. Your asthma doctor can provide you with additional measures to protect your health.
Limit Activities Outdoors
During days with poor air quality, avoid going outdoors if you can. If you must go outdoors, wear a protective mask and eye protection. Wear clothing that covers your skin and hair to reduce the risk of direct contact with ash. When you get indoors, take your clothing off and immediately shower to remove any residue from your skin. This is especially important for those with asthma, due to the increased risk of triggers during and after a wildfire.
Top Asthma Doctor
Unmanaged asthma can have a profound impact on your short and long-term health. If you need asthma treatment, contact Dr. Shukla at the Asthma & Sleep Institute today to schedule your appointment!
