Today is the last day of Respiratory Care Week. I was going to skip it entirely but the southern California wildfires are causing some serious breathing problems for so many people, it seemed wrong to ignore the topic in favor of my personal stomach virus.


Before we get to the problems caused by the fires, let's look at the real reason there is a respiratory care week: COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States. Fourth. Are you at risk? Did you know that there are things you can do to reduce your risk of COPD?

* Quit Smoking
* Avoid exposure to pollutants
* Visit your doctor regularly
* Avoid the flu

Karen has COPD and blogs about COPD news and information and her husband has a COPD spouses blog.

At Breathe Free, I found a "30 day fragrance free challenge" that I'm all for taking.

My husband says that I am the best thing to happen to his asthma. (Before me, he dated a woman who bathed in fragrances.) In the 14 years we’ve been together, his asthma has been well controlled. Why? Because I don’t allow fragrances into my home.

Speaking of asthma, even those not in the most fire ravaged areas of California should take precautions.

A note to those of you in the heart of the California fire disaster - even if you live miles away from the fire - the contaminated air can easily drift or blow to distances quite far away - if you have asthma or any respiratory conditions:
Keep windows closed
Avoid any outdoor activity
Talk to your doctor if you feel any issues with air quality

Sabinem doesn't have asthma or respiratory problems and she's feeling the effects of the fires.

I have had a cough since Sunday night. I am sure it is caused from inhaling the smoke. And I am not one to usually suffer from any asthma or respitory problems. I feel for those who are prone to respiratory problems.

From the California Department of Public Health:

Californians should seek medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness or shortness of breath. This is important for not only people with chronic lung or heart disease, but also for individuals who have not been previously diagnosed with such illnesses. Smoke can "unmask" or produce symptoms of such diseases.

Don't ignore these symptoms - if you're in California and experiencing anything like this, please seek medical attention.

~~Denise
Flamingo House Happenings and Fast Times @ Homeschool High