In times where the sky feels like it’s falling down to earth, it’s important to stay calm and take proper precautions. Focus your actions on the things within your control and accept those beyond it.
As the ashes of forest fires fall to ground level, many of the people we care about will experience burning lungs and eyes. Within those ashes are carcinogens such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants.
These may pose a significant health risk. Inhaling this smoke can irritate the respiratory system and exacerbate existing health conditions. The severity of symptoms depends on the concentration of smoke particles, the duration of exposure, and individual health. Here’s a breakdown of common symptoms categorized by exposure level & at the bottom of this post are nutritional & herbal recommendations to support you and your family:
Understanding Common Smoke Exposure Issues
Smoke inhalation can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Cough: A dry cough or cough with phlegm is a common symptom.
- Sore throat: Smoke irritates the throat, causing a scratchy or burning sensation.
- Runny or stuffy nose: Smoke can trigger congestion and a runny nose.
- Eye irritation: Burning, itching, or watering eyes are common.
- Headaches: Mild headaches may occur.
- Fatigue: Smoke inhalation can leave you feeling tired and lethargic.
Severe Smoke Exposure Symptoms
- Difficulty breathing: This includes wheezing, tightness in the chest, and rapid, shallow breathing.
- Persistent cough: A cough that produces black mucus or blood is particularly concerning.
- Chest pain: Sharp or burning pain in the chest can indicate inflammation or injury.
- Headaches: Smoke inhalation can cause severe headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
- Nausea and vomiting: Smoke irritation can disrupt the digestive system, leading to nausea and vomiting.
- Visual disturbances: Burning or itchy eyes, blurred vision, or excessive tearing can occur.
- Loss of consciousness: In extreme cases, heavy smoke inhalation can lead to unconsciousness.
The World Health Organization (WHO) highlights a critical fact: outdoor air pollution, largely driven by wildfires and chemical pollutants due to the manufacturing industry, are now the leading environmental cause of cancer deaths globally.

TIPS & STRATEGIES:
Minimizing Smoke Exposure
Fortunately, there are steps you can take to minimize smoke inhalation during a wildfire event:
- Stay indoors: This is the most crucial step. Close all windows and doors to prevent smoke from entering your living space.
- Air purifiers: If available, use air purifiers with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters. HEPA filters trap smoke particles, while activated charcoal filters can help bind to some of the harmful chemicals present in smoke.
- Reduce outdoor activity: Limit your time outdoors, especially during peak smoke hours. If you must go outside, wear a well-fitting N95 mask to filter out smoke particles.
- Seal cracks: Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors to prevent smoke from seeping in.
By recognizing the symptoms of smoke inhalation and taking steps to minimize exposure, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during a wildfire event. Remember, if you have any concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to seek professional medical advice.

Lung Support:
Emphaplex + Pulmaco
Liver Detoxification Support:
Parotid PMG
SP Cleanse
21-Day Purification Program
Immune Support:
Immuplex (Nutritional support for the entire WBC production line)
To purchase any of these formulas, please call our office at (208) 906-8883.
If you suspect that you are experiencing health challenges due to smoke inhaation or are looking for a natural approach to improving your health, book an initial consultation HERE so we can help you figure it out.

References
- World Health Organization. Ambient (outdoor) air pollution [invalid URL removed]. Accessed July 23, 2024.
- Dennekamp, Paul, et al. “High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filtration for particulate matter removal from indoor air.” The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (2019). [PUBMED 30879321]
- Reid, Celia A., et al. “Health effects of wildfire smoke: evaluation of the evidence for the update of the 2008 consensus statement.” Environmental health perspectives 124.8 (2016): 1033-1044. [PUBMED 27298679]
- Shafiei, Ehsan, et al. “Wildfire smoke exposure and respiratory and cardiovascular emergency department visits in the Pacific Northwest, 2008–2015.” Environmental health perspectives 125.1 (2017): 010701. [PUBMED 27890333]
- Sinclair, Daniel M., et al. “The global burden of disease attributable to second-hand smoke in 2015: a combined analysis of respiratory, cardiovascular, and cancer deaths.” The Lancet Global Health 5.12 (2017):