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Check ozone levels and fine particles in the air for various locations in
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Hot, Hazy, and Humid Days in Summer and Fall
Ground Level Ozone
Location Matters
What makes
ozone good or bad news is its location. Ozone is a protector when it helps shield
from the sun's harmful rays and is located in the upper atmosphere of the earth.
However, it also occurs at ground level when pollution and sunlight
interact. Ozone levels are highest in sunny hot areas with heavy traffic or other
sources of pollution. It is even worse with air inversions that trap pollutants near
the ground.
Lung irritant
Ground-level ozone has an irritating effect on the respiratory
system. Hot hazy days in mid-summer may give relief to some from spring pollen
allergies, but those with asthma can have symptoms flare due to air pollution and
ground-level ozone.
Asthma
Lung function can be reduced making it harder to breathe, and
coughing may occur from the irritation caused by ground-level ozone. During ozone
alerts asthma is more likely to flare, medication adjustments may be needed, and some
studies show more ER and doctor's visits for asthma take place. In fact exposure to
ozone can also increase reactions to allergens such as pollen.
Tips for hot, hazy, and humid days
Plan indoor, rather than outdoor, exercise.
Use air conditioning or go to a public area or mall that is cool.
Plan errands and activities so you can avoid being outdoors during
late afternoon as this is when ozone levels are usually the highest.
Keep your bronchodilator inhaler with you at all times.
Hot hazy and humid days continue after school
starts
After school starts, there is still hot humid weather for
youngsters with asthma to contend with as well as fall pollens and indoor allergens in
classrooms. Give the school information in writing about your child's asthma.
Arrange for your child to have medicine in case symptoms start at school.
