Parts of the U.S. are experiencing smoke from Canadian wildfires drifting down and summer temperatures pushing up, creating a potentially deadly situation, according to the American Heart Association. The combination of extreme heat and wildfire smoke carries major risks, especially for people with chronic health conditions including heart disease.
“Extreme heat and wildfire smoke each carry major risks, especially for people with chronic health conditions including heart disease. The combination of the two is extremely dangerous,” said Manesh R. Patel, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association. “We want people to be mindful of the increased risk and take steps to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Patel noted that while respiratory health problems are often considered the biggest health impact from wildfire smoke, the serious impact on cardiovascular health must also be recognized. Wildfire smoke contains fine, microscopic particles linked to cardiovascular risk. Scientific evidence indicates that smoke exposure may worsen health for those with existing heart disease and may trigger major cardiovascular events even in those without known health conditions. As fires continue to burn, contaminated smoke travels many miles into areas experiencing record summer temperatures.
A study published in Circulation, the peer-reviewed flagship journal of the American Heart Association, found that the risk of fatal heart attacks nearly doubled during days of extreme heat waves and high levels of fine particle pollution. The risks were even greater for women and older individuals. Several research studies have also linked smoke exposure to an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest and higher volumes of emergency room visits for cardiovascular disease-related causes.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that exposure to heavy smoke during wildfires raised the risk of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests up to 70%. The risk was elevated among men and women, adults aged 35-64, and in communities with lower socioeconomic status. Previous findings from the same research group noted that wildfire smoke exposure was associated with increased rates of emergency room visits for ischemic heart disease, irregular heart rhythm, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, and stroke.
Patel offered tips for reducing exposure to wildfire smoke and extreme heat. He advises staying indoors with doors and windows closed to limit smoke exposure, using high-efficiency air filters in air conditioning systems or portable air cleaners, and seeking alternative shelter if the home does not have air conditioning. Limiting outdoor activity, especially between noon and 3 p.m., wearing a mask outdoors, avoiding exertion, staying well hydrated with water, and avoiding alcohol and caffeinated drinks are recommended. Dressing in lightweight, light-colored clothing, wearing a hat and sunglasses, and using sunscreen are also suggested.
It is important to check on older people and those with chronic health conditions, as risks are higher for them. Pets may also be affected and should be brought indoors. Recognizing the signs of a heart attack or stroke is critical. Chest discomfort, discomfort in other areas of the upper body, shortness of breath, cold sweat, nausea, rapid or irregular heartbeat, unusual tiredness, and lightheadedness are warning signs. Heat stroke, another deadly medical emergency, requires immediate attention if body temperature exceeds 103°F, with hot red skin, rapid pulse, confusion, headache, or nausea. Knowing and performing CPR can more than double the chance of survival in cardiac arrest.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers a zip code-level tracking map of current air quality at airnow.gov. Patel recommends checking that site regularly and staying informed about local health department alerts. “Protect yourself, be alert and prepared,” he said. “It could be the difference in saving your life or that of someone you love.”
