Up to date Air-Quality information

We hear about air-quality from many sources, from the weather report to vacuum cleaner commercials. The air we breathe can carry many tiny particles that will affect your health, especially if you are an allergy sufferer. Common contaminants in the air include dust, pollen, and smoke. Air in well-insulated houses can concentrate not only these contaminants but fumes and vapors from household chemicals like chlorine bleach and cleaners. Getting enough fresh air where you live may be as simple as opening a window or as complex as filtering and ensuring proper humidity in an apartment or office HVAC (heating, ventilating and air conditioning) system. Use of smoke removers and air filters (either electrostatic or HEPA) may improve indoor air quality.

When you’re living with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), you must take into account environmental factors, such as seasonal changes and weather and how they can affect your breathing. IPF flare-ups can be triggered by a number of factors, and unfortunately, changing weather is one of them.

According to Everyday Health, increased coughing, shortness of breath and phlegm production can accompany changes in the seasons and weather. You can avoid or reduce symptoms in the following ways:

• Cold weather: Exposure to very cold air sometimes causes fatigue. When you go out, wear a scarf or loose muffler around your face, and try to breathe through your nose, allowing air to warm up a bit before it gets to your lungs.
• Hot weather: High heat tends to come with increased air pollution, which can contribute to IPF flare-ups. On very hot days, try to stay indoors in an air-conditioned space.
• Windy days: Extreme wind can also be fatiguing, especially if you have to walk in it.If you can’t avoid being in the wind entirely, try not to walk directly into it.
• High humidity: Although some people with IPF can cope with high humidity levels, others experience worsening symptoms. Staying inside can help, especially if you have air conditioning. You can also use portable or whole-house dehumidifiers to help control the humidity in your home.
• Low humidity: Hot and humid air can create resistance to airflow into the lungs. Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home can boost your comfort.