SARASOTA – While Saharan dust may create pretty sunsets, it may also trigger breathing issues for those for those with respiratory conditions.
“The weather may be beautiful, but the dust is going to be in the air whether you can see it or not,” said Allergy and Asthma Immunology Specialist, Hawthorne Clinic, Christopher Tumpkin.
African dust storm season is here and with some uprising in the air, Saharan dust can make its way to the Suncoast.
“It gets pulled up, into the higher parts of the atmosphere, where we see stronger winds, and those strong winds can end up pushing the dust over the ocean and eventually in some cases, it brings it to Florida,” said SNN Meteorologist, Leslie London.
While Saharan dust creates skies of salmon and lavender hues, it can also create a health hazard for people with respiratory issues.
“You’ll cough, you might wheeze, cant breath very well, if you have allergy problems you might get itchy watery eyes, your nose might plug up, and it can be very uncomfortable, and if you have a condition already, that condition can be exacerbated requiring you to seek medical attention if were not careful,” said Dr. Tumpkin.
Dr. Tumpkin recommends paying attention to the air quality in your area
“Sometimes there’s newscasts, sometimes your apps for you weather will tell you, other times you should just plan ahead,” said Dr. Tumpkin.
Wearing a mask while being outdoors could also help those with respiratory issues, as well as taking any regular medication
“Sometimes we get a little relax with medicine and not paying attention because everything is nice and then you get hit with this so prepare yourself by taking your asthma medication or your COPD medicine and make sure you are up to date on every schedule basis, at least for the next two days so you don’t get caught,” said Dr. Tumpkin. “Because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it’s not going to be there.”
