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Smoky air is tough on lungs

MSHC respiratory therapists have some tips

Rock Springs — The smoke-filled skies over Sweetwater County may be at the root of some respiratory issues.

Extra precautions should be taken, according to Memorial Hospital of Sweetwater County health care professionals. Limit your exposure if you have any type of heart or lung disease, are a child or an older adult, have diabetes or are pregnant.

Smoke from the wildfires that are raging throughout the West continues to flow into Sweetwater County.

The respiratory therapists at Sweetwater Memorial have some tips for those who may be affected by the hazy skies:

  • If you are currently on medications for lung diseases, be diligent about taking your medications as prescribed by your physician.
  • Smoke inhalation can irritate your lungs, so be sure to carry any prescribed rescue inhalers with you at all times.
  • If you are wheezing or it is becoming increasingly difficult to breathe, contact your primary care physician immediately.
  • If you know the smoke is an irritant to your lungs, avoid being outside as much as possible.
  • If you have a known lung disease such as asthma, COPD or any other lung complications, take extra care to limit smoke exposure.

To contact a health professional, check out the services on this site.