DETROIT (WXYZ) — Detroit currently ranks as the city with the worst air quality in the world as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to impact the region, according to IQAir, creating health concerns for residents.
"I've had several patients tell me that their asthma symptoms have worsened, more specifically more chest tightness or just chest tightness in general, shortness of breath, wheezing," said Dr. Garen Wolff, allergist and immunologist at Detroit Medical Center.
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Wolff describes the current conditions as "a perfect storm of allergens" affecting the air quality throughout the area.
"The smoke, as you mentioned with pollution, it not only brings particulate matter, specifically weeds, grasses, tree leaves — that pollen — over to us but it's also putting nitrous oxide, carbon monoxide in the air," Wolff said.
The air quality in Detroit currently contains particles measuring 2.5 microns or less — about the size of dust particles — which can travel deep into lung tissue. This poses significant risks for people with underlying health concerns, like asthma and COPD.
"I recommend that all of those individuals do not partake in significant physical activity greater than four hours, make sure that they have their inhalers with them at all times in case they have a flare," Wolff said.
She also advises older individuals to limit outdoor exposure to less than an hour.
Local businesses are responding to the crisis. Planet Fitness locations across the state are offering free access to their facilities so people can avoid exercising outdoors.
"You can just come on in here go to the front desk and let them know that you're a visitor and you can work out in our facilities," said Mary Scott, vice president of marketing at Planet Fitness.
The free access is available until Sunday and may be extended if air quality conditions worsen.
Detroit resident Richard Evans Jr., who typically exercises outdoors daily, has moved his workouts indoors until conditions improve.
"Sometimes during the day, it's really hard to breathe. Even sometimes, trying to sleep because it irritates your eyes. It's an annoying situation," Evans said.
Evans, who usually enjoys cycling and running during summer months, has adjusted his routine.
"Just go to an indoor gym and have at it and once this clears up, we'll go back outside," Evans said.
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