By Steve Conti, RRT, AE-C
Pulmonary Disease Management
Seton Family of Hospitals

During the hot months in Central Texas , everyone should be prepared to protect themselves from the harmful effects of ground-level ozone. Ground-level ozone (smog) can irritate the lungs and throat, causing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath and chest pain. Ozone affects every one who works, plays or spends time outdoors; even the healthiest of people.

However, these effects are very dangerous for children, the elderly, and people with asthma or allergies. People with existing lung disease (e.g.. asthma, chronic bronchitis, and emphysema) already suffer from reduced lung function. Aggravated respiratory symptoms from exposure to ozone may further impair the ability of these individuals to perform normal activities and can result in increased hospital admissions, emergency department visits, and even death.

We can protect ourselves when ozone levels are high by avoiding physical exertion whenever possible, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.; and by limiting all outdoor activities. Watch for pollution reports in the media to determine those days when ozone action days are issued and caution should be taken.

You can get more information from the AIRNow Web site developed by US government agencies including the EPA, NOAA, NPS, tribal, state, and local organizations about local air quality information because one of their collecting stations is in the Georgetown/Austin area.