Health Information
Wildfire smoke includes particulate matter (PM). PM can be
directly emitted, as with fires, or it can form in the atmosphere
from reactions of gases such as nitrogen oxides. PM from wildfire smoke can cause serious health impacts.
The size of particles is directly linked to their potential
for causing health problems. Small particles (known as PM 2.5 or fine
particulate matter) pose the greatest problems because they bypass the body’s
natural defenses and can get deep into your lungs and potentially your
bloodstream. Exposure to such particles can affect both your lungs and your
heart.
Sac Metro Air District monitors PM 2.5 concentrations at several sites throughout Sacramento County.
Long-term exposure to particulate pollution can result in
significant health problems including:
Increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing or difficulty breathing
Decreased lung function
Aggravated asthma
Development of chronic respiratory disease in children
Development of chronic bronchitis or chronic obstructive lung disease
Irregular heartbeat
Nonfatal heart attacks
Premature death in people with heart or lung disease,
including death from lung cancer
Short-term exposure to particulate pollution can:
Aggravate lung disease causing asthma attacks and acute bronchitis
Increase susceptibility to respiratory infections
Cause heart attacks and arrhythmias in people with heart
disease
Even if you are healthy, you may experience temporary
symptoms, such as:
