Air Pollution in Phoenix

As our population grows, our air gets worse. More development, more people, more cars, more concrete means more problems with our air. The Phoenix area is nicknamed the Valley of the Sun for a good reason: it sits in a valley. Without a lot of rain or wind, the pollutants tend to just hang around in the valley, making it uncomfortable for many residents who are sensitive to it. Eye irritation, runny nose, sore throat, coughing, and shortness of breath may result on days when pollution in the area is bad. People with asthma and other respiratory illnesses are especially at risk on those days.

Air pollutants that we have in Phoenix are usually nitrogen oxides, ozone, carbon monoxide and particulates. Cars account for most of the problem, and that pollution is worse in the winter when cold air traps the pollution in the Valley. Air pollution advisories will be issued when ozone levels or particulate concentrations are high.

If you have allergic reactions to higher levels of pollution, you may experience coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and/or fatigue. Here are some tips for you.

Pollution

1. Limit outdoor activity on air pollution advisory days.
2. The very young and very old should stay inside on air pollution advisory days.
3. Don't participate in strenuous activity on those days.
4. Filters and room air cleaners can help reduce indoor particle levels.
5. Don't smoke, and if you do, don't do it in the house.
6. Don't burn wood in your fireplace.
7. Try not to drive on unpaved roads. If you have to, close your vents and turn on the a/c to reduce the amount of dust coming into the vehicle.

Page 1: Intro to Allergies in Phoenix
Page 2: Pollen in Phoenix
Page 3: Dust in Phoenix
Page 4: Pollution in Phoenix

The following sources were used for some of the material in this article:
Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Southwest Asthma and Allergy From University of Arizona
ASU Research

_{Note: None of the information here is intended to be medical advice. The details provided here are general, and factors relating to pollen, dust and pollution will affect each person differently. Consult a doctor to diagnose and treat any medical condition.}

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