WebMD's Paul Enright, MD

There are more serious tragedies being faced in Louisiana by the survivors of Hurricane Katrina than sinusitis and asthma attacks, but it's important that people understand the risks.

Those with asthma or sinusitis should avoid returning to homes along the Gulf Coast that sustained water damage. Molds have already begun to grow (it starts within 24 hours of the flooding.) Moving items with mold will release the spores into the surrounding air, causing nasal, sinus, and lung inflammation one to 12 hours later. If it's really necessary to enter a musty-smelling or damp area, wear a well-fitting N-95 respirator (breathing filter masks that remove dust particles and fumes). You can buy these from an Internet source or perhaps buy one at a local hardware store.

After adjusting the nosepiece and straps, you can do a rough check for leaks as follows: Cup both hands over the front of the mask (to cover the filter media) and inhale. Do not push the mask against your face. The fit is good if the mask pulls in toward your face. If you detect any leakage of air, readjust the nosepiece and straps.

After a mold exposure, rinse your nose with saline and 15-30 minutes later use your prescription nasal corticosteroid spray. This will reduce the risk of rhinitis and sinusitis.

Those with asthma should simply avoid the entire Katrina disaster area for several weeks. If you can't, be certain that you take your asthma controller medication (inhaled corticosteroid) faithfully twice a day. Call a doctor or pharmacist when you start getting asthma symptoms and ask about getting a week's worth of prednisone (a steroid).

There are dozens of superb pulmonary specialists and allergists in the area, but I'd be happy to help in any way that I can. You will also be in our thoughts and prayers. If you have specific questions about your respiratory health, ask me at my Asthma message boardAsthma message board.

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Published September 2, 2005.