Mesothelioma patients must deal with adverse health conditions and environmental hazards every day. Sometimes, things can get even worse for those suffering from cancers caused by asbestos exposure. Such is now the case for residents in Seattle and other towns and cities in the Pacific Northwest.
Smoke wafts over international borders
Our neighbor to the north has been busy trying to quell the flames of wildfires all summer. Annually, Canadian firefighters battle more than 8,000 forest fires that scorch over 2.1 million hectares of land. Most of these fires occur in the southern portions of the country rather than in the colder northern provinces and territories. Of course, Washington has also been dealing with it’s own wildfires this year, which contribute to the unhealthy air quality.
What can mesothelioma sufferers do?
Microscopic fine particulate matter is carried by the smoke from wildfires. Even healthy people can suffer from these contaminants that work their way from the lungs to the bloodstream.
People living with mesothelioma already struggle to catch their breath. Many live tethered to oxygen tanks. Wildfire smoke just ups the ante. The patients weakened respiratory systems can’t compensate for the additional strain from the smoke. Conditions worsen, sometimes dangerously so.
Maintaining quality of life
Every day matters to mesothelioma sufferers. That’s why they need to protect themselves from wildfire smoke exposure as much as possible. Remaining indoors and wearing masks when leaving their homes can mitigate some of the effects of the smoke.
If you are living with mesothelioma, know that you are not alone. Help is out there. Learn more about seeking compensation for your work-related exposure to asbestos.