When temperatures soar into triple digits, most of us think about sunburn and dehydration. But there’s another summer hazard hiding in plain sight — and it’s everywhere.
“Poor air quality can pose significant risks, especially if you have asthma or COPD,” says Ali Saeed, MD, interventional pulmonologist at HonorHealth Heart Care. “Minimizing your exposure is key.”
He shares what makes summer air hit your lungs hard and how to stay one step ahead.
Desert drama: smoke, dust and spores
Arizona summers bring a mix of respiratory challenges you won’t find everywhere else, from fires to fungus.
Wildfire smoke carries microscopic particles deep into the lungs. Even healthy people may feel the effects, like irritation, coughing or getting winded while exercising.
Summer storms in the desert bring on another unique challenge: an increase in cases of valley fever. When monsoons disturb the dirt, the fungus spores that cause this illness can become airborne.
Symptoms of valley fever include fatigue, trouble breathing, fever and a nagging cough. “When the body isn’t strong enough to fight it, the infection can also show up as pneumonia, or a spot on the lung,” says Dr. Saeed.
The good news? "Most patients who get exposed to valley fever without a compromised immune system, their body takes care of it,” he says.
Listen to your lungs
It's easy to dismiss breathing issues as allergies or a reaction to dry air. But when symptoms stick around or get worse, your lungs may be trying to tell you something.
At HonorHealth, our lung specialists are here to help you get answers. Using advanced tools and less invasive procedures, we can take a closer look at what’s going on and guide you toward the right treatment — often without the need for surgery.
For those with chronic lung conditions, waiting it out is especially risky. "If asthma is poorly controlled for a long time, then the damage can be permanent, rather than reversible," Dr. Saeed explains.
Talk with your healthcare provider if you notice:
- Increased wheezing
- Frequent coughing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
- Reduced ability to exercise or perform daily activities
- Symptoms that aren't improving with your usual treatment plan
If you have ongoing symptoms, connecting with a specialist can help you get peace of mind. Call our team at 480-882-7750 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your lung health and treatment options.
Give summer heat some breathing room
You can’t control the air quality in our hot desert summers, but you can change how you respond to it.
Dr. Saeed recommends a simple approach: “Understand your lung condition if you have one, know the severity of it and use good judgment," he says.
Simple steps like limiting outdoor activity during peak heat, wearing a mask or staying indoors when wildfires are burning can reduce your exposure — and help you breathe easier all season long.