Murcia’s calima becomes dangerous when toxic air affects asthmatics and allergy patients the hardest

Stepping outside in the Region of Murcia this week meant nothing more than wiping the dust off the car. Others have had to reach for their inhaler. People with asthma, chronic pulmonary disease, and seasonal allergies feel the effects of the poor air quality that continues to cover south-east Spain. They can even see it on the horizon before the haze.

It’s not the usual calima which turns skies milky white and covers balconies in Saharan sand. According to Region Murcia’s official air pollution monitoring networkPM2.5 is the name given to the concentrations of airborne particles that are the smallest, most harmful, and most dangerous. Public health concerns have increased as pollution levels continue to rise. These microscopic air pollutants are invisible to the naked-eye, but they can travel deep into the lungs, and even reach the bloodstream. They are one of the most harmful forms of air pollution.

When a walk turns into a struggle

Poor air quality can make an ordinary day difficult for people who suffer from asthma or chronic respiratory diseases. Even a simple evening stroll, trip to the grocery store, or sitting outside at lunchtime can cause shortness of breathe, coughing and wheezing.

The doctors warn that people with COPD, emphysema, and other chronic lung diseases are especially vulnerable to episodes of this kind, because their airways have already been compromised. Even healthy individuals may experience irritation in the eyes, a sore throat or discomfort when breathing after prolonged exposure.

Allergic reactions can be bad news

The current conditions They are also unwelcome to the thousands who already battle seasonal allergies. Saharan dust may not cause hayfever, but it can irritate the airways that are already inflamed and make allergy symptoms worse.

As the calima and summer pollen levels in the region combine, many residents report more frequent sneezing. They also experience itchy eyes, irritated mouths, and persistent coughing. Some people are unable to distinguish between allergies and pollution.

Pollution levels continue to be high, official advice

The Region of Murcia continues advising vulnerable groups to limit prolonged outdoor activity as long the episode continues. Children, pregnant and elderly women, as well as people with respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, are being advised to limit their outdoor activity, particularly in the heat of the day.

Residents are encouraged to also monitor the official air quality network in Murcia, which gives real-time updates of pollution levels. Combining extreme heat with poor air quality can put additional stress on the body. Staying hydrated is important, as well as seeking out cooler indoor environments.

Waiting for wind to return

The rain or thunderstorm is different. The calima usually has no dramatic end. The dust may remain suspended for several days in the atmosphere until weather patterns change and it finally disperses. Before then, residents will continue to check not only the weather forecast but also the air quality they are breathing.

The current episode has far more to do with those who suffer from asthma, allergies, or chronic pulmonary disease than dirty cars and hazy skies. This is about something much more personal.  For many in Murcia this past week, taking a breath has become a difficult task.