Central Valley doctors worried about heat, air quality impacts

FRESNO, Calif. ( KSEE/KGPE ) – The Central Valley has been dealing with a hot summer this year that has local doctors worried about the impacts of heat and air quality on people.

According to Dr. A.M. Aminian, extended time outside in the daytime is not healthy right now. He recommends residents stay indoors and away from the outdoors for long periods of time.

“What we can do during this time of the year, people should not be outdoors unless they are in transition. They have to protect also their body from their skin, from the sun,” Dr. Aminian said.

Young, old, and those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of developing health problems from the heat and air quality.

“The heat and the air pollution can affect the respiratory tract, can affect the heart, can affect people with other chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, in people with respiratory problems,” Dr. Aminian said.

Extended physical activity would also mean your body needs more oxygen, but that can be difficult in these conditions.

“If you feel foggy, if you feel dizzy, nauseated, you cannot think straight. You’re feeling a headache. You’re feeling tight in the chest. That means you’re getting affected by the heat. Immediately go in immediately to drink a lot of water, get yourself cooled down,” Dr. Aminian said.

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