• Run the air conditioner (use the "recirculation" setting) and/or use your indoor air filter system. Although the call is out to conserve electricity, those in risk groups need clean air
• Do not hesitate to consult with your doctor if problems develop; you have priority over those without lung conditions.
• You may need to take extra medication as prescribed. Follow your asthma action plan or your doctor's instructions to increase medication dosage or add new medication if symptoms worsen. If you have asthma and have been prescribed a controller medication, but have not been consistent with it, this is the time to be regular and consistent
• If after taking medications symptoms persist, call your doctor. If you do not have instructions about what medications to take and you are having increased breathing difficulty, call your doctor
• If you have a peak flow meter, use it as prescribed Peak flow meters can provide valuable ongoing information about the status of your breathing
• If you are using supplemental oxygen, do not alter your intake without a doctor's instruction. Stay calm and concentrate on exhaling slowly

In general, watch your breathing, take your medications, drink plenty of water (unless on fluid restriction), and follow your doctor's instructions.

Symptoms to watch for:

• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty taking a full breath
• Chest heaviness
• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness

You should feel better after taking your medications as prescribed. However, if you are still having difficulty breathing, call your doctor or a local community clinic or urgent care center.

If the symptoms above are severe or they are not relieved within 30 minutes after taking medications go to an emergency room.

Danger signs/symptoms which indicate breathing difficulties that require an immediate visit to a hospital emergency room:

• Gray or blue lips and nail beds of the fingers or toes
• Gasping or panting for breath
• Severe headache (like a migraine) that is not relieved with aspirin or acetaminophen
• Severe pain in the chest, can't take a deep breath
• Pain or cramps in the pit of the stomach that won't go away
• Changes in speech, can't finish a sentence without losing one's breat
• Changes in vision, blurred vision

On the other hand, if people with lung disease are experiencing these symptoms, medical attention could be necessary.

Keeping it cleaner indoors

• Don't smoke
• Don't use spray products – use solid type air fresheners and avoid hairspray
• Don't use strong chemical cleaning products
• Dust with damp cloths
• If needed, run air conditioning with filter

Sensible Cleanup Precautions
Those with lung disease should not be involved in the clean up process at all.

For those not in risk groups:

• Hose it down, don't blow it around
• Wear a dust mask during the clean up
• Change filters on furnaces, air conditioner, automobile
• Consider investing in a high-quality air filter

The American Lung Association of San Diego & Imperial Counties is your community resource for lung disease prevention, research, and education. During regular business hours call 1-800-LUNG-USA for more information.