Medical Expert Shares Safety Tips for Saharan Dust Wave

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NASSAU , BAHAMAS- The Ministry of Health and Wellness is warning that Saharan dust can hit hardest among people with chronic health conditions and asthma.

Children, the elderly, and pregnant women who have sensitive immune systems are also being warned, as the dust can worsen existing conditions.

Medical Director at Family Medicine Center, Dr. Graham Cates, explains what to expect from the Saharan dust.

Dr. Graham Cates – Medical Director, Family Medicine Center
“The air quality over The Bahamas will be changing over the coming days and weeks, just because of the concentration of dust. And so, these are microparticles inside of the environment, and these particles will, of course, affect the quality of air. Now, in terms of patients being exposed to this, there are groups of persons that are more susceptible to complications or adverse effects associated with exposure to the Sahara dust.”

And when it comes to signs and symptoms…

Dr. Graham Cates – Medical Director, Family Medicine Center
“The common signs that people may experience that are exposed are common things, such as itchy eyes, runny nose, sore throat. Some people may experience coughing. If persons have underlying respiratory disease, they may develop wheezing associated with that, which are an exacerbation of their symptoms. Persons who have heart disease, because of the increased oxidative stress of these microparticles getting into the bloodstream, it causes inflammation of the blood vessels. This can cause them to have worsening of their symptoms, or even chest pain associated with it.”

And Dr. Cates reminds us, when it comes to Saharan dust, the real responsibility starts with how closely we pay attention to our own health.

Dr. Graham Cates – Medical Director, Family Medicine Center
“If you fall into that vulnerable group, make sure that you’re aware if you are developing symptoms, don’t ignore them. You know, I tell my patients all the time, don’t keep kicking the can down the road, because long-term implication of that is not going to be good. So, if you have early signs and symptoms associated with exposure to the irritant, for example, the Sahara dust, know what you should be looking for and be proactive. You are the best person to manage your health. As healthcare providers, we can give you a lot of information, but our job is the 10 percent, your job is the 90 percent.”

If you’re in the vulnerable group or have chronic health conditions with worsening symptoms…

Evlynn Ferguson – Our News
“Reach out to your local health providers at the clinic or at the hospital, or contact 911 as soon as you can.”