Every year, people across Canada watch the sky turn orange from thick, hazy wildfire smoke, sometimes drifting in from thousands of kilometers away. The effects of this smoke are a growing public health concern, with wildfire seasons lasting longer each year.
Public health campaigns generally focus on the impact of wildfire smoke on our respiratory system, but the reality is that it can affect the whole body. Dr. Sasha Bernatsky is a rheumatologist from McGill University studying the connection between air pollution and rheumatic disease. She and her colleagues have found that people with repeated exposure to air pollution are at a higher risk for developing chronic diseases, like arthritis.
Arthritis encompasses over 100 diseases characterized by inflammation in the joints and other areas of the body. This inflammation causes different symptoms including pain, stiffness, and joint swelling, and if left untreated, can lead to irreparable damage to the affected areas, resulting in loss of function and disability.
How are wildfires and arthritis related?
Wildfires are major contributors to air pollution. Within air pollution, the tiniest of particles – PM2.5 — can reach deep into the lungs and bloodstream, and trigger inflammation. This inflammation “stimulates white blood cells that may cause autoimmunity, which underlies conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus,” Dr. Bernatsky says.
While anyone can be affected by this, Dr. Bernatsky has found that “it’s both the genetic material of an individual and the environment that causes a health condition to develop.” That means that people who are exposed to significant air pollution and are genetically predisposed to rheumatic diseases are likely most at risk.
How to reduce negative health effects during wildfire season
Dr. Bernatsky says the best thing anyone can do is to plan their activities around the air quality in their region. Canada has an Air Quality Health Index which rates air quality on a scale of 1-10+.
- Good air quality sits between one and three;
- Air quality between four and six poses moderate health risks. While this is in effect, it’s recommended that people who are sensitive to air pollution reduce any strenuous outdoor activities;
- Air quality of seven or higher poses high risk, and everyone is advised to limit strenuous outdoor activity.
When the air quality is poor, wearing a well-fitted N95 face mask can also help reduce your exposure to harmful fine particles from the smoke, although it doesn’t completely protect you from air pollution.
Dr. Bernatsky’s recommendations for limiting air pollution indoors when air quality is poor
- Keep your windows and doors shut. If you have an air conditioner, set it to recirculate indoor air. If you don’t, it’s a good idea to invest in some fans to keep the air cool and moving, although these do not remove air pollutants. If your home becomes too hot, consider visiting an air-conditioned public building with cleaner air, like a library or community centre.
- Use air filters in the rooms you use most. These are available for purchase, but Dr. Bernatsky also says you can save some money by making your own with a fan and a MERV air filter – just follow one of the many tutorials online.
- Avoid burning candles and fires indoors. Things like wood-burning fireplaces and candles can pollute the air quality inside your home.
Additional tips to manage arthritis during wildfire season
Have an evacuation plan
Displacement due to forest fires and extreme weather is often a possibility. To prepare for an evacuation, refill your prescriptions early and keep at least a 7-day supply of your medications in an emergency kit. If any of your medications require refrigeration, ask your pharmacist how to transport and store them safely.
Keep moving indoors
When it comes to arthritis, movement is some of the best medicine – which is true regardless of the air quality outdoors. There are plenty of indoor activities you can try to reduce arthritis stiffness, from yoga to Tai-Chi and other strength-building exercises. See our physical activity guide for ideas.
Talk to your doctor
Alongside wildfire smoke, the summer heat can also exacerbate arthritis symptoms. If you’re experiencing a flare or any new symptoms, talk with your doctor.
