Health Tip: Breathe Easier in a Volcano Zone

(HealthDay News) -- Major volcanic eruptions like the one going on in Hawaii are rare, but they can lead to serious health concerns.

Volcanos produce gases mixed with water and tiny particles that form a type of pollution called vog. It can irritate the eyes and trigger heart attacks and respiratory problems such as asthma and wheezing.

Active volcanos also spew ash, which can lead to symptoms such as coughing, chest tightness and wheezing.

The American Lung Association suggests ways to deal with vog or ash:

  • Do not smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Stay indoors and use air conditioning. Keep the AC's setting on "recirculate."
  • Assume that your lung condition may deteriorate during periods of vog and ash, and contact your doctor as soon as any problem develops.
  • Pay attention to the wind direction to find out if vog or ash is likely to be blown in your direction that day.
  • Drink plenty of fluids, unless you have a medical condition that requires you to limit fluid intake.
  • Avoid outdoor physical exertion.
  • Don't rely on a dust mask to filter out the smaller particles of pollution.

    • Date Published: 2/28/2024 4:38:34 AM

    Related Articles

    Wildfires in Western U.S., Canada Create Hazardous Air Conditions

    Continue

    Search Allergy Articles

    Back-to-School Tips to Helping Your Kids Breathe Easier

    Athletes Can Expect High Ozone, Pollen Counts for Paris Olympics

    Your Allergy Meds Come With Hazards: Be Aware

    Tools You Can Use to Control Winter Asthma, Allergy Symptoms

    FDA Approves First Nasal Spray to Curb Anaphylaxis, An Alternative to Injections

    Exercise in Pregnancy Might Lower Baby's Odds for Asthma Later

    September is Peak Asthma Month: Is Your Child Ready?

    Late-Life Menopause Linked to Higher Asthma Risk

    More Kids With Asthma Need Hospital Care on Very Hot Days

    Certain Pollens Worse for Triggering Asthma Attacks

    First U.S. Death From Bird Flu Reported in Louisiana

    What You Need to Know About FluMist, the Nasal Flu Vaccine

    'Dual Mutant' Seasonal Flu Virus Could Make Some Treatments Ineffective

    Texan Has Contracted H5N1 Bird Flu; CDC Calls Threat to Public 'Low'

    Patient Hospitalized in Louisiana With First U.S. Case of Severe Bird Flu