The air quality in the city of Porto is being heavily affected by the fires in the north of the country, resulting in ash and smoke that is harmful to health. Civil Protection recommends that, whenever possible, people remain indoors. The situation requires attention and appropriate precautions to ensure the safety and well-being of the population.

Derived health complications

The components present in smoke, especially in environments with forest fires or pollution, can cause various health complications, such as:

• Irritation of the upper respiratory tract: Eyes, nose and throat can become irritated as a result of exposure to smoke, causing discomfort and tearing.
• Increased secretions: The body tries to eliminate irritating particles by producing more mucus and sputum.
• Persistent coughing: Coughing is a common reflex when the airways are assaulted, serving as a defense mechanism to expel harmful substances.
• Inflammation of the airways: Smoking can cause inflammation (edema) and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult.
• Respiratory diseases: Prolonged exposure can aggravate or cause conditions such as bronchitis and exacerbate pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma.
• Aggravation of heart disease: Patients with cardiovascular disease can suffer complications, as smoking reduces oxygen levels in the blood and increases cardiac effort.
• Altered state of consciousness: Prolonged exposure to or inhalation of large amounts of smoke can cause symptoms such as weakness, drowsiness and, in severe cases, fainting.

These effects can vary depending on the intensity and duration of exposure to smoke, as well as the individual sensitivity of each person.

If you have to walk outside, wear a mask (similar to those used during the pandemic) to move around and filter the air you breathe better.

How to avoid exposure to smoke from fires?

Follow these recommendations:

• Stay indoors: Keep doors and windows closed and, if possible, use the air conditioning in recirculation mode.
• Avoid indoor combustion sources: Don’t use gas stoves, fireplaces, candles, incense or smoke indoors, as these sources can worsen air quality.
• Reduce outdoor activities: Avoid leaving the house while there is smoke in the room.
• Wear an N95 mask: If you have to go outside, wear an N95 mask to reduce the inhalation of harmful particles in the air.
• Maintain your usual medication: If you have respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD, strictly follow your prescribed medication and contact your doctor if you notice any worsening of symptoms.
• Hydration and comfort: Make sure you stay hydrated and in cool environments to help your body cope with the heat and pollution.

These measures are essential to protect your health in the event of fires and exposure to smoke, particularly for more vulnerable people.

Which Risk Groups are most susceptible to air quality?

Some groups are more vulnerable to developing complications from smoke inhalation. These include the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with cardiovascular or respiratory diseases, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These groups should be especially careful in situations of prolonged exposure to smoke.

If you need help or know someone who is in difficulty, talk to a health professional. The next few days will be critical and exposure to extremely polluted air will continue even after the fires are extinguished.

Talk to Porto Doctor on Call and you’ll be referred to a professional who will help solve respiratory problems caused by poor air quality.