WACO, Texas (KWTX) – The dust will soon settle but some of its effects could stick around, effects you won’t necessarily see.
Our fellow Texans in West Texas have learned how to live in the haze.
Meteorologist Shania Jackson, with KWTX’s sister station KCBD, says people who are not used to it are not always aware of the effects it can have on your daily routine.
“For example, I was leaving the gym this morning. I’m walking outside sweaty and the dust is sticking to my skin because I’m sweaty and moist. The dust is going to get on you, especially in your eyes,” Jackson says.
Your eyes are just one of the many things that can become compromised. “This especially can cause problems for your eyes and get down into your airways and cause problems for your lungs and your heart,” says Dr. Tim Martindale, a family physician in Waco.
Martindale says your risks increase during a dust storm if you have a weaker respiratory system.
“Someone who has asthma and they breathe those particles in, they can hit the inside of the air tracts and trigger a spastic reaction,” Martindale explains.
The damage from the dust can go even further, triggering infections and putting people with heart problems at risk. Which is why, just like carrying an umbrella in a rainstorm, you should take the necessary steps to protect yourself.
“If you’re outside, you’ll want to wear something over your face, nose and mouth. As well as sunglasses or something protective over your eyes,” Martindale says.
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