Doctor Warns Wildfire Smoke Particles Can Harm the Lungs

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Wildfire smoke can pose serious risks to respiratory health because it contains extremely fine particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs. Exposure to the smoke can also worsen existing respiratory conditions.

Primary Care Family Medicine Specialist, dr. Aghnaa Gayatri, said the human respiratory system has natural filtering mechanisms that help trap and remove particles. However, the particles contained in wildfire smoke are extremely small and can reach the small airways and alveolar region of the lungs.

“These wildfire smoke contain very small particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and these particles can reach the small airways and the alveolar region,” Aghnaa said during VOI Talk with RRI Voice of Indonesia on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

She explained that these particles can trigger irritation, inflammation, and narrowing of the airways. This can result in symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, increased phlegm, and shortness of breath.

The condition is particularly concerning for people with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or other respiratory conditions. Exposure to wildfire smoke can increase the risk of acute exacerbations, causing existing symptoms to become more severe.

“People that already have such as asthma or COPD or other respiratory conditions are at risk of getting more acute exacerbations or more attacks,” she said.

Aghnaa also clarified that wildfire smoke does not directly cause respiratory infections. However, air pollution from smoke can impair the respiratory system’s natural defense mechanisms and increase inflammation, potentially making people more vulnerable to respiratory infections.