Doctors report increase in patients dealing with smoke irritation

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As smoke continues to blanket our skies and filter out the sun, doctors are noticing a jump in the number of patients complaining about smoke irritation.

 

In Clay County at the CareSpot in Middleburg, upper respiratory issues have spiked because of allergy season and the wildfire. Doctors say people who already suffer from allergies are breathing in the smoke and that's making their symptoms worse. They're also seeing cough and congestion and a couple cases of the stomach flu. 

 

In Duval County at the CareSpot in Mandarin, they're reporting a viral stomach flu with symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and a fever. People are getting on the BRAT diet this week and calling out sick for at least three days.

 

In St. Johns County at Healing Arts Urgent Care Center in St. Augustine, sinusitis, allergies, and rhinitis are keeping physicians busy. The staff there also says they're seeing what they call the 'crud'. Patients have flu-like symptoms with a fever, chills, body aches, and a persistent cough. Several patients are also dealing with poison Ivy. Doctors are anticipating respiratory issues in the upcoming days from the smoke. 

 

In Nassau County at the CareSpot in Yulee are seeing the most number of patients affected by the smoke. They're reporting roughly 15% more patients this week with sinus infections, congestion and allergies.