Illinois EPA declares August 1 as air pollution action day for Chicago

In addition to the "Monday back-to-work blues" trouble breathing, fatigue, headaches and congestion may be what many Chicagoans experience today due to toxic air quality. The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has declared an air pollution action day for today, August 1, for the greater Chicago metropolitan area.

"A toxic cocktail of extreme heat, humidity causing the heat index to be well over 100 degrees plus widespread ozone and particulate levels expected to be at or above unhealthy levels means trouble for those with sensitive respiratory systems," said Joseph Leija, MD, allergist, Gottlieb Memorial Hospital, part of Loyola University Health System. Dr. Leija performs the daily official allergy count for the Midwest for the National Allergy Bureau from April through October, allergy-reporting season.

"Chicago and the Midwest have been plagued with heavy rain and extreme heat that have created toxic levels of mold, which has created stressful breathing conditions for many. This may be the final straw for many sufferers," said Dr. Leija, who issued a high mold alert on Thursday, July 28 for the entire Midwest.

Ozone is a gas that becomes toxic when it reaches the lower atmosphere. "Ozone exposure produces headaches, burning eyes, and irritation to the respiratory passages," said Dr. Leija. "Even low concentrations of ozone in air are destructive to many plants, animals and, of course, people."

Dr. Leija's tips for protecting health today include:

•Stay indoors and avoid outdoor activity.
•Run air conditioning to lighten air by removing humidity.
•Rinse inner nostrils with saline solution to rinse trapped debris and moisten membranes.
•Avoid strenuous activity and rest.
•Talk to your allergist about adjusting prescribed medication.

"Thousands of Chicagoans are at risk today," warned Dr. Leija.

Source: Illinois Environmental Protection Agency