Health Effects of Volcanic Ash

Volcanic eruptions cause tiny particles of jagged, rock-like ashes to explode into the air. Though ash is small, it becomes visible as it settles on rooftops, cars and streets. The build-up of ashes can collapse roofs and make roads dangerous; however, the health effects might lead to loss of lives.

Eye

• The U.S. Geological Survey warns that exposure to volcanic ash can cause eye irritation. People who wear contact lenses are especially at risk of eye irritation because the ash builds on the lens in the eye. The eye might feel like sand or foreign particles are in it.Some symptoms of eye irritation caused by exposure to volcanic ash include itching , burning, a sticky discharge and excessive tearing. h. Corneal abrasions and acute conjunctivitis are serious effects of volcanic ash that require medical treatment.

Skin

• Volcanic ash might irritate the skin. Those close to a volcanic eruption should protect their skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Because of the ash's heat, burns might also occur on skin. Direct contact with volcanic ash can cause severe burns that require immediate medical attention. Severe burns caused by such high heat sources might penetrate deeper into the skin and cause muscle damage. Direct burns to the skin caused by volcanic ash require medical treatment because the burns could lead to dehydration, organ damage and death.

Respiratory

• Breathing in harmful ash might cause lung irritation. Health Canada states that short-term exposure to ash does not cause a major health hazard; however, minor irritations and breathing problems can occur. Those at high risk for lung irritation are children, elderly, and people with lung and heart problems. Breathing ash under these conditions can cause shortness of breath, nasal discharge and burning in the lungs. People might also experience frequent dry coughing. A facemask is a short-term solution to avoid breathing volcanic ash. People with asthma should take extra precaution to prevent ash from clogging their lungs or nasal passages.

Elderly

• The Environmental Protection Agency states that the older population is at a higher risk for health effects from volcanic eruptions. Older people report more instances of respiratory, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular problems than young people. Elderly people should stay indoors to avoid breathing in the harmful ash. They should also limit physical activity to decrease muscle problems. During physical activities like gardening, sweeping or raking leaves, elderly people increase their air intake to about 20 times the resting level. The increased breathing can pull more harmful air into the lungs