Let’s talk about air pollution.

Not climate change, because I have beliefs about that, but I understand that we don’t all agree about it. I’m not here to talk politics with you. I am here to talk about science and the many studies that prove that air pollution of all kinds is bad for our lungs, our health, and, of course, for our burning neuralgia.

If you are in a part of the world that is affected by wildfires, Saharan dust, or other environmental factors that trigger air quality warnings, please heed them. Stay inside if you can. If you have an air purifier, please use it regularly. Take this seriously for your health and your comfort if you suffer from Burning Mouth Disorder.

I was just in Northwest Washington State for a 50th High School Reunion and planned to fly over to Eastern Washington to spend a few days with my best friend from Austin who bought a condo there a few years ago. She called me and said, “Don’t come.”

The wildfires in Idaho had recently intensified, and the winds were carrying smoke and particulates into her area. She told me that the alerts had warnings that even if the air looked clear enough, it wasn’t, and they advised everyone to stay inside if at all possible. I listened, and we are rescheduling our visit. If you are traveling this summer, check out the air quality as well as the temperatures. Your chronic pain will thank you!

So, what can you do if you have to go out?

Mask up, my friends. Stay extra hydrated and limit your exposure!

On another note, I ran into an old school friend at the reunion who thanked me for letting her know about the Burning Mouth Support website. A friend of hers had been suffering without knowing what was wrong, and the research and coping strategies there had helped her immensely. She now has a diagnosis, a treatment that is helping, and a resource to check in with to see if any progress gets made.

It all helps.