REMSA: Respiratory Issue Related Calls Up 25 Percent Due to Air Quality

The air quality index in Reno-Sparks is currently "unhealthy for sensitive groups." While that's a slight improvement from Monday's unhealthy for everyone ranking, REMSA urges everyone to remain vigilant about prolonged exposure to the elements. 

Adam Heinz, Director of Clinical Communications for REMSA says the amount of respiratory-related calls has increased significantly this July, compared to the same month in previous years. Heinz says, "We really haven't seen this type of increase in the number of patients with breathing problems since around 2013."

Those calls increased about 25 percent this month alone. Heinz says that's almost 100 more calls than usual for July. 

Besides more serious respiratory issues, other symptoms can be more of a nuisance. Heinz says to look out for, "Headache, dizziness, sometimes nausea, runny nose, itchy eyes sore or irritated throat."

When the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups like pregnant women, infants and children, elderly and those with respiratory disease like COPD or asthma, Heinz advises, "Remain indoors, keep your windows and doors shut, keep your air conditioner on."

If you absolutely have to be outside, take frequent breaks, indoors, when possible. Heinz says if you do not have A/C in your home, head to the mall, library or other indoor public venue--to stay cool while staying away from the poor air quality. 

REMSA says for short periods of time outdoors, masks may help for some, but it's important to make sure they're the right kind. For example, Heinz says common surgical masks are not recommended for times like this. 

To filter out the smaller, harmful smoke particles, a P100 mask is suitable, like one you can find at Reno Paint Mart. Jacob Becker, Assistant Manager says, "It's good for people that have asthma and heart issues."

The business stays well stocked with them. Last summer, they even gave up their supply to distribute to fire-affected residents across California. Becker says, "So they could have the protection they needed because there were [mask] shortages, a lot of shortages."

REMSA wants everyone to remember that while coughing and wheezing can be a typical result from this air quality, you should still call 911 immediately if you have difficulty breathing or experience chest pains.