If you've stepped outside recently and noticed that our vibrant, blue Austin skies have been replaced by a milky, white haze, you aren't looking at local smog or a sudden humidity spike. Instead, you are witnessing a massive atmospheric phenomenon that traveled more than 5,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean to reach Central Texas: the Saharan dust.
The summer Saharan dust: What you need to know
Every summer, powerful desert winds carry millions of tons of dust from North Africa into the Western hemisphere. As these microscopic dust particles descend into our local breathing zones, they can pose real health challenges for Austin families, irritating the eyes, nose, and throat.
Mild symptoms of dust irritation include:
- Hazy, watery, or itchy eyes
- Scratchy, sore throat
- Dry coughing or frequent sneezing
- Mild sinus congestion
Children are most vulnerable to dust irritation as their developing lungs are highly sensitive to inflammation. Additionally, dust irritation can greatly impact older adults or anyone living with a chronic respiratory condition like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Breathe easier with on-demand urgent care from ARC's NormanMD
You don't have to navigate the dusty summer months alone. ARC's NormanMD is here to help. ARC's virtual care platform provides patients with 24/7 access to health care from ARC physicians and advanced practice clinicians (APCs) from their smartphone, tablet, or computer.
"ARC and NormanMD are great resources that allow you to access the care you need at your fingertips," says Sunaina Suhag, MD, FAAP, an ARC Pediatrician with NormanMD. "A clinician can help you figure out what is the best next step that you haven't yet tried."
ARC clinicians can instantly update your child's asthma treatment, prescribe allergy medication, or refer you and your family to Same-Day or After Hours care at one of nearly 40 ARC clinic locations across Central Texas.
Be sure to visit an ARC clinic if you or your child experiences the following warning signs:
- Persistent, hacking cough
- Wheezing or whistling sounds while breathing
- Shortness of breath or rapid, shallow breathing
- Chest tightness or pain
- Inability to catch breath
With NormanMD, comprehensive medical attention is just one message or call away. Our ARC physicians and APCs are here to help you and your family breathe easy all summer long.
Visit NormanMD.com to learn more about memberships and join the platform today.