THURSDAY, June 25, 2020 (HealthDay News) -- As the giant Saharan dust plume continues its 5,000-mile journey across the Atlantic Ocean, experts warn that people in its path can expect to have flare-ups of allergies and asthma.
The massive dust cloud is expected to hit the U.S. Gulf Coast this week.
"The tiny dust particles contained in the plume will cause eye, nose and throat irritation for anyone who comes in their path, but particularly for allergy and asthma sufferers," said allergist Dr. J. Allen Meadows, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
"Keep in mind this does not relate to traditional dust mite allergy, but dust storms, air pollution and other outdoor irritants can make asthma symptoms worse and make breathing more difficult," he said in a college news release.
The dust plume, drifting from North Africa across the Atlantic to North America, occurs a few times every year, experts say. But this week, the cloud of dust is especially huge, and it's already hit the Caribbean.
These tips may help you weather the health risks of the Saharan plume:
More information
The Allergy & Asthma Network can answer questions about controlling your symptoms.
SOURCE: American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, news release, June 24, 2020
Stay Independent of Allergies, Asthma This July Fourth
Seniors, Here Are the Meds That Can Harm Your Driving Skills
Food Allergies in College 101: Tips to Cope
Mom's Opioid Use in Pregnancy Raises Child's Asthma, Eczema Risk
FDA Wants More Data on First Needle-Free Antidote for Severe Allergic Reactions
Boys Who Smoke Could Be Harming Their Future Children's Health
Nova Scotia Wildfires Sending Unhealthy 'Smoke Plume' to U.S. Northeast
COVID Does Not Spur Asthma in Kids, Study Finds
Canadian Wildfire Smoke's Health Impact on NYC Residents May Have Been Less Than Feared
American Lung Association Blasts Biden for Inaction on Menthol Cigarette Ban