Residents in the Phoenix area are reporting persistent scratchy throats, but the cause may not be what they suspect. Nurse Practitioner Samia Kadri with Banner Urgent Care told AZFamily that the combination of poor air quality, intense heat, and dust are irritating residents' throats. "You might think, 'Oh my goodness, I’m not sick, but I sound sick,'" said Kadri, indicating that the irritants in the air could be mistaken for symptoms of a contagious illness.
With air quality deteriorating, the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality has issued a High Pollution Advisory for approximately 30 days since June 1. During the dust storms, it's not just the scratchy throats that residents have suffered, but some irritants have also compromised the lungs and airways of those with asthma and heart disease, according to a report from KOLD News. "All those irritants can compromise your airway and your lungs," Kadri explained, highlighting the increased risk for individuals with such pre-existing conditions.
Kadri recommends a few simple remedies for those experiencing throat discomfort. Staying hydrated is key, and this can include drinking water, gargling with warm salt water, or enjoying a cup of tea. Moreover, she suggests an at-home electrolyte drink made from coconut water, salt, sugar, and lemon to replenish lost nutrients due to the heat. In this “lovely heat that we’re having, we definitely need some electrolytes with our water," Kadri explained to KOLD News.
