Wildfire Smoke: How to Protect Your Health
Dr. Pierre Brunschwig
As wildfires continue to impact Colorado, many communities are experiencing smoky skies and reduced air quality. Even if you're healthy, wildfire smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, while those with asthma, allergies, heart disease, or other chronic conditions may be especially vulnerable. Wildfire smoke is damaging to the lungs, so it’s important to mitigate this impact until our skies are clear again.
Below are practical recommendations to help minimize exposure and support your health during our smoke season. If you have questions about any of these solutions or are experiencing symptoms and want to speak to a provider, give us a call at 303-499-9224.
Wildfire season is expected to be extra harsh this year due to the lack of snowfall this winter.
Minimize Outdoor Activity
Minimizing outdoor activity wherever possible is an important mitigation practice. It is especially important to avoid high intensity and aerobic activities outside. Opt for indoor activity spaces like gyms, recreation centers, or home workouts. Pay close attention to the air quality index when considering outdoor plans.
Maintain Clean Indoor Air
Clean indoor air is essential for your wellbeing during smoke season. Keep your doors and windows closed consistently and purify your spaces if possible. You can order Austin Air Purifiers through the Apothecary, which are durable, efficient, and cost effective. These purifiers are medical grade, with HEPA and carbon filters that only need to be changed once every five years. We have been using them in our office for over fifteen years, so we can personally vouch for their effectiveness. You can find more information about Austin Air Purifiers here, or contact the Apothecary for model information and pricing.
Detoxifying the Lungs
Glutathione
Glutathione is a potent protector of the lungs and assists in detoxification. It’s often called the “master detoxifier” and is the primary metabolizer of carcinogens. We offer glutathione in three forms:
Liquid liposomal glutathione from Quicksilver Scientific is available at the Apothecary. We recommend 2 pumps 1-2 times per day, at least 10 minutes before meals. We also offer N-Acetyl-Cystine (NAC), the precursor to glutathione, in a capsule form. Our recommended dose is 600mg twice daily in between meals.
Intravenous glutathione is available in our IV clinic and can be added to any order upon request.
Nebulized glutathione is recommended for those with asthma and severe lung conditions. This is a vaporized version that can be inhaled directly, maximizing effectiveness. We offer these in office by appointment only. If you own a nebulizer, you can also call us regarding a compounded prescription for home use.
Herbal Approach
Glacier Pearls are available through Dr. Margaret for those looking for an herbal approach. This is a potent formula from the Classical Pearls line made for former smokers or those with compromised lungs, designed to treat and prevent lymph and toxic accumulation above the diaphragm. 3 capsules 2-3 times per day on an empty stomach during wildfire season should provide excellent support.
Homeopathic Approach
Homeopathy is available to those preferring a homeopathic treatment or an extra layer of protection. The homeopathic derivative of Sulfuric Acid is Dr. Brunschwig’s recommendation for smoke inhalation. This is available to Helios patients free of charge and to non-patients for a nominal fee. Just call or contact the Apothecary for pickup.
Helios is Here to Help
While we’re all hopeful for a generous monsoon, it can’t come soon enough. Until then, pay attention to your lung health and take advantage of all the tricks we’ve learn to safeguard your lungs. If you have questions about any of these solutions or are experiencing symptoms and want to speak to a provider, give us a call at 303-499-9224.
Dr. Pierre Brunschwig is the medical director at Helios Integrated Medicine. He has been boarded in holistic medicine and family practice, and is trained in homeopathy, functional medicine, and acupuncture. He tirelessly studies inside and outside the medical box to deliver the most effective care for his patients.