Ask the Doctor: Dr. Santosh Vaghela

Q: How do seasonal and environmental changes like pollen and wildfire smoke affect people with chronic lung disease, and what precautions should they take?

A:  As a pulmonologist practicing in upstate New York, I’ve seen firsthand how seasonal and environmental changes can significantly impact lung health. This time of year, we’re facing a double challenge: rising pollen counts and smoke drifting from Canadian wildfires. For individuals with lung disease, these airborne irritants can trigger coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and flare-ups that sometimes require emergency care.

Pollen—especially tree and grass pollen—is at its peak in late spring and early summer, and it can penetrate deep into the lungs. Meanwhile, wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter which can worsen inflammation in already sensitive airways. Together, these factors can make it particularly difficult for people with chronic lung diseases to breathe.

It’s important to monitor local air quality reports and take precautions, such as staying indoors on high-risk days, using air purifiers, and making sure medications are up to date. If you or a loved one has lung disease, speak with your healthcare provider about creating an action plan during this time of heightened exposure.

Learn more about our Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine practice here.