Heart and lung conditions
Asthma, COPD, heart disease and previous stroke all raise the risk from pollution spikes. Work out a written plan with the doctor before the season.
People with asthma, COPD, other chronic lung disease, coronary heart disease, heart failure, previous heart attack or stroke, or abnormal heart rhythms are among the most affected by pollution spikes. Diabetes also raises cardiovascular risk.
Before the season (September–October)
- See the doctor and ask for a written action plan for high-pollution days: which medicines to step up, which symptoms mean calling them, and which mean going to hospital.
- Ask whether a tight-fitting respirator is safe for this person, and for how long.
- Check inhaler technique and expiry dates. Stock at least a week’s extra supply of all medicines.
- Vaccinations: ask about flu and pneumococcal vaccines. Infections and pollution together are a common trigger for flare-ups.
- Set up the clean room and check it with a monitor.
During bad spells
- Spend most time in the clean room, door closed, purifier on.
- Keep outdoor exertion light and short. Exercise indoors.
- Take regular medicines exactly as prescribed. Keep relievers within reach.
- Don’t wait for symptoms. US EPA notes that high particle levels can trigger heart attacks with no warning signs, so people with heart disease shouldn’t assume they’re safe just because they feel fine.
- Follow the action plan if symptoms change, and don’t wait for them to become severe.
Respirators and these conditions
A respirator adds some resistance to breathing. Many people with mild to moderate conditions can wear one for short periods, but people with severe COPD, severe asthma or heart failure may find it hard. That’s why it should be discussed with their doctor. If wearing one causes breathlessness, dizziness or chest discomfort, move to cleaner air and remove it.
Warning signs
Call 112 for:
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness, especially spreading to the arm, jaw or back
- Severe breathlessness, or a reliever inhaler not helping
- Blue or grey lips, inability to speak in full sentences
- Fainting, sudden confusion, or stroke signs: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty