However, mounting evidence points towards damage to our brains as well.
Dangerous soot and toxic chemicals pose a greater risk to the communities it settles on than commonly believed.
Aside from the visible smoke, there is particulate mattertiny pieces of burnt material that can be inhaled.
Robert Lang Photography / Getty Images.
Along with carbon dioxide and nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter can damage human health.
You have direct toxicity of these particles to certain neurons in your nervous system.
Additionally, You have direct toxicity of these particles to certain neurons in your nervous system, she explains.
The results of such neurotoxic effects could change brain structure and lead to neurological issues, especially in children.
These people are often forced to stay in areas where the concentration of particulate matter is the highest.
Therefore, they are at the most significant risk of adverse mental health outcomes.
However, that is a global issue and out of the hands of the individual.
Time outside should be limited, especially for the young, elderly, and pregnant.
Those who venture out should wear a mask that prevents the inhalation of fine particles in the air.
Since the particulate matter is so fine, the use of regular paper masks is insufficient.
While staying indoors may offer the best protection, it must be done correctly.
The people exposed to these levels of particulate matter should be made aware of the dangers it poses.
Every precaution should be taken to protect your mental and physical health as the wildfire season continues.
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IQAir.Air quality in Salt Lake City.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Protect yourself from wildfire smoke.
