As air quality alerts remain in effect across the Erie region, health experts are urging residents to limit their exposure to smoky conditions, warning that the health risks extend beyond people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Doctors say the fine particulate matter carried in wildfire smoke can affect nearly everyone, causing irritation and increasing the risk of more serious heart and lung complications. Local hospitals have already seen an increase in patients seeking treatment for smoke-related illnesses, and environmental experts believe the poor air quality could continue as wildfires burn.
Dr. Matthew Becker, System Director of Cardiovascular Medicine at LECOM and a volunteer expert of the American Heart Association, said the greatest concern is the microscopic particles found in the smoke…