Smoke from summer wildfires in the west, effect on health

In 2017 and 2018 we had a lot of smoke here from wildfires burning along the west coast. This is said to be really bad for people with respiratory problems. I’ve had mild asthma for a long time but have never needed any special treatment except occasional use of a “rescue inhaler” when I’m exercising. I’d use it maybe 2-3 times a week.

Last summer the smoke lingered here for days at a time and it affected me. I was wheezing and coughing. I was using the rescue inhaler several times a day with little improvement. Finally ended up seeing a doctor, who put me on something called Breo, an inhaled steroid. It really helped with the symptoms but like most meds it causes side effects.

It’s predicted that summer wildfire smoke is the new normal on the west coast and in the Rocky Mountains. It’s going to be inescapable. I’d love to be able to just pack up and leave when the smoke hits, but that’s not realistic. And I hate being cooped up indoors with the house closed up tight and the A/C running to filter the air.

After doing some googling on types of face masks effective at filtering out smoke, I’ve gone ahead and ordered some just in case.

Is anyone besides me giving this any thought? Have you or anyone close to you been affected health-wise by smoke from wildfires?

 

This is what I ordered. They claim to be N99.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07S5H1LDY/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_bIrfDbQMXRYY4

ANALAN Dust Mask Washable and Reusable Pollution Face Mask with Filter Pollen Smoke Flu Protection(Grey, X-Large,7 PCS N99 Filters),