Wildfire Smoke Is More Than an Air Quality Problem

Wildfire smoke is blanketing millions right now. At these levels, the smoke hits everyone’s lungs, but it’s especially dangerous for people living with complex chronic conditions.

Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles (PM2.5 - particulate matter 2.5 microns in diameter or smaller) that cross into the bloodstream once inhaled.

This is known to trigger neuroinflammation (1).

For those managing complex chronic illnesses, this can worsen symptoms dramatically, increasing:
- flares
- fatigue
- brain fog
- headaches, etc.

Even healthy people will feel the effects (2). Immediate protection steps include:
- Run HEPA air purifiers if you have them
- Stay indoors with windows closed when the air quality index is high
- Wear a well-fitting N95 or KN95 mask when you must go outside (not cloth masks, they don’t cut it for this smoke)
- Building a Corsi-Rosenthal Box

\ Corsi-Rosenthal Box:
These DIY air purifiers offer powerful filtration and can dramatically improve the air quality in your home. They’re simple, cheap, and shockingly effective.

Materials are available at most hardware stores, and many can build one in under an hour.

Bonus: They work on pollen, wildfire smoke, and other pollutants year-round.

How to build one: https://corsirosenthalfoundation.org/instructions/

If there is advice we left out that could help reduce wildfire smoke exposure, please drop a comment below for those reading this post!

Take care of yourselves out there.

Literature Cited:
1. Scieszka, D., et al. J Neuroinflammation 20, 192 (2023). PMID: 37608305
2. https://www.epa.gov/wildfire-smoke-course/durations-smoke-exposure