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Dust storm: NSW Health issues warning for people with heart and lung problems

People with heart and lung conditions have been warned to be careful as a large dust storm moves toward Sydney and the Central Coast.

Farmer captures dust storm approaching farm

People with heart and lung conditions have been warned to be careful as a large dust storm moves toward Sydney and the Central Coast.

Air quality in the Sydney basin is expected to worsen during the day before a cold front brings rain later this afternoon.

In northern parts of the State levels of dust are forecast to increase in the afternoon and evening.

NSW Health has issued the warning and said people with these conditions should cut back or postpone strenuous outdoor activities.

People have been warned to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Picture: Toby Zerna
People have been warned to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Picture: Toby Zerna

Director of Environmental Health, Dr Richard Broome said dust may aggravate existing heart and lung conditions and cause symptoms like irritated eyes and a cough.

“People with conditions including asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and heart disease should monitor their symptoms throughout the day,” Dr Broome said.

“People with asthma should follow their asthma action plan and it’s a good idea to make sure you carry your reliever puffer with you,” he said.

Keep you reliever puffer with you today.
Keep you reliever puffer with you today.

“Symptoms can occur for several days after dust is inhaled, so people with chronic conditions need to be vigilant with their treatment programs,” Dr Broome said.

If symptoms do not settle, seek medical advice and in the case of an emergency always remember to dial triple-0.

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Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/central-coast/dust-storm-nsw-health-issues-warning-for-people-with-heart-and-lung-problems/news-story/7b7334b531c548fecdad0da79e40b946