Dubuque doctor sees increase in severe asthma symptoms due to poor air quality [Video]

DUBUQUE, Iowa (KCRG) – A Dubuque doctor says he’s seen people with more severe asthma symptoms because of poor air quality.

The recent drop in air quality is due to smoke from wildfires in Canada.

The wildfire smoke prompted air quality alerts from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Dr. Adrian Letz with UnityPoint Clinic – Dubuque says that smoke contains particles that can enter the smallest airways, causing inflammation that’s worse in people with asthma.

He said symptoms can include difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness.

“We have people with difficulty controlling asthma at a baseline due to chronic allergen exposure, exposures at home, in the workplace, viral infections, but when they’re exposed to this toxic mixture of wildfire smoke it just compounds the problem more,” said Letz.

Dr. Letz recommends people with respiratory conditions limit outdoor time, wear a mask, and consider using air purifiers indoors.

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