Forest fires burning in B.C. and Alberta have been a factor in reduced air quality in recent weeks, including here in Southern Manitoba. That on top on heat can be a major irritant for people, especially for those who already have underlying respiratory issues like asthma.

Doctor Michael Routledge, Chief Medical Officer of Health for Southern Health-Santé Sud, said if symptoms arise, it's never a bad idea to get checked by a physician or other health care provider.  Doctor Routledge said if symptoms like coughing, difficulty breathing, or worsening breathing arise, it's good to get checked, whether it's related

Dr. Michael Routledgeto weather conditions or not.  

Routledge added knowing that there may be some air quality or smoke issues in your area combined with symptoms, it's even more so important to check with your doctor.

Routledge said there are different components to the smoke, and some of those components can have can have fairly significant impacts on health.  He said typically they are most concerned with people with underlying respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.

On top of compromised air quality, Doctor Routledge said heat can also be a major irritant.  He said very often it's the same underlying conditions that put people at risk.  Routledge said when you have smoke combined with hot conditions, that just increases the risk.

Routledge adds a key to protecting yourself in these conditions, is to be aware.  

"If you're somebody who has a respiratory condition, asthma, for example, make sure that your condition is treated to the maximum it can be.  Another step if there are concerning conditions outside like smoke and heat, is to take steps to limit the exposure.  So if you're working outside all day, you're taking breaks and making sure you're staying hydrated."

Routledge said a good tool to utilize to help you stay aware of what's going on with the outdoor air, is Environment Canada's Air Quality Health Index, which can be found online.  
He said there is a range of very good to poor quality with steps in between.  He said if the air quality is moderate, most people won't notice anything, but those with underlying conditions may notice.