When Temperature is Hot, Ozone is Harmful for Breathing

Ozone hole is known can cause skin burns easily. But it turn out that ozone was also dangerous for breathing,  especially ozone smog haze or ground-level ozone. Smoke haze can cause severe respiratory attack, including severe chest pain and difficulty breathing. Most of the risk occurred in children who spend time outside the home, adults who have asthma or other respiratory problems.

"If inhaled, this smoke haze can cause breathing and respiratory problems for asthmatics and smokers who suffer from chronic lung disease," said Dr. Nick Hanania, director of Adult Asthma Clinic and Pulmonary Diagnostic Laboratory, Harris County Hospital District as reported from Healthfinder, Tuesday (05/01/2012).

For some patients, treatment from the hospital is necessary.

The symptoms caused by exposure to smoke haze include:
1. Cough and throat irritation
2. Difficulty to breath
3. Inflammation lining of the lungs
4. Chronic lung infection

"In contrast to atmospheric ozone layer that protects Earth from sun, smog haze can be dangerous," said Hanania.

This pollution is created when pollutants from cars and factories belonging to the intense heat. To reduce exposure to smog, team of doctor recommends a few precautions when smog haze levels are high :

1. Remain in the house, except in the morning or after sunset.
2. Do not exercise or work outside the home
3. Avoid areas with high traffic density.
4. Do not place the fan in the window. It's better if you close the windows and use air conditioning

Although dependent on levels of smog in the air, this suggestion could saved some lives. The best thing you can do is to be in air-conditioned room.

Hanania also add that anyone who is experiencing breathing difficulties should immediately get medical attention.