Calgary, AB (PRWEB) August 29, 2015 -- People who have heart or lung diseases, like congestive heart failure, angina, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (including emphysema), or asthma, are at higher risk from wildfire smoke especially in Calgary, Alberta.Those with existing heart conditions such as angina, previous heart attack, heart failure or heart-rhythm problems (arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat) are also sensitive to air pollution.
Tiny particles in smoke from wildfires may increase the danger of acute heart problems, including cardiac arrest and ischemic heart disease especially among vulnerable people, according to a new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. These particulates can be easily inhaled deep into the lungs. These particles may act as a trigger factor for acute cardiovascular health events. This suggests that particles from wildfires specifically can cause adverse cardiovascular effects on a short-term basis.
Forest fire smoke reaches cities far from the blazes and, on most days during the wildfires, levels of particles exceeded the recommended air quality limits.
The Heart Fit Clinic, a private healthcare cardiac clinic in Calgary, is urging Calgarians exposed to smoke to be aware of its health impacts, and be vigilant to such symptoms as chest pain and tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and coughing, all signs of possible heart trouble. If you cannot get in to see your health care professional, the Heart Fit clinic is equipped to assess and consult with anyone worried about the forest fire smoke and its impact it might be having on your cardiac or overall health.
“These are the symptoms to be mindful of during this period,” says Diamond Fernandes, director of the clinic. “Do not delay seeking medical help if you experience symptoms of heart problems during smoke episodes from wildfires. And just because the air looks clear visually, don’t dismiss the impact these particles may have had on your heart health.”
The Heart Fit Clinic perform cardiovascular screening assessments that you will not find at doctors' offices along with heart disease treatment programs with medical fitness and their new External Counterpulsation Treatment, also known as ECP or EECP.
For more information please contact the Heart Fit Clinic.
Diamond Fernandes, Heart Fit Clinic, http://www.heartfitclinic.com, 403-870-4348, [email protected]
SOURCE Heart Fit Clinic
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