On Tuesday morning Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement for Edmonton as wildfire smoke hung over the city. The agency said that the Air Quality Health Index had exceeded 10, signalling a high risk to some who will be outdoors today. It is recommended that seniors, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with pre-existing or chronic health conditions and people who work outdoors, reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. Symptoms may look like eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. Shivali Sharma, an Edmonton pharmacist, said treatment for wildfire smoke is similar to allergy treatment, but there is no blanket remedy that works for everybody. “We really try to understand what symptoms are bothering the individual the most … because it can change from person to person,” said Sharma, adding any pharmacist or doctor would likely start out with an antihistamine. A nasal spray may also be necessary for those experiencing sinus issues or post nasal drip. People who experience dry eyes during a smoky day are advised to avoid wearing contact lenses. Artificial tears are a way to re-hydrate the eye and flush out any irritants. Coughing, itchy, sore or dry throats are a bit harder to treat, said Sharma. “We don’t really recommend any over-the-counter cough syrups,” said Sharma, adding that in these situations, using a humidifier, avoiding outdoors if possible and lozenges can help. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. Environment Canada says if you experience more serious symptoms to seek medical attention. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. Environment Canada says if you experience more serious symptoms to seek medical attention. It is also recommended to keep windows closed as much as possible. However, when there is an extreme heat event occurring on top of poor air quality, it is advised to prioritize keeping cool. Those who have to work outside, it is advised they wear a respirator mask such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent. There are currently 61 out-of-control wildfires burning in the province as of Tuesday morning. Environment Canada says Edmonton can expect to see poor quality throughout the evening, but that it should ease up by Wednesday morning.
