The increase in the level of pollution is causing many health problems. People who suffer from respiratory problems or have poor lungs such as COVID-19 patients are at higher risk of health complications due to rising pollution levels.
For COVID-19 patients, increased air pollution levels can increase various health complications.
Ashish Khattar, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Venkateswara Hospital.
Dr Khattar further said that due to air pollution, increased irritability will damage the lungs.
“The lungs will starve for more oxygen and then the lungs will start breathing more,” Khattar said.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report, nine out of 10 people are breathing polluted air with high levels of pollutants, which are dangerous, leading to an increase in premature deaths every year.
According to experts, people who have a history of respiratory diseases like Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) are going through health problems.
“With the Diwali festival season setting in for winter, we have observed a significant drop in temperature and an increase in ambient pollution levels. When these pollutants are inhaled by a person, they cause respiratory symptoms like cough, breathlessness, sputum production. cause wheezing,” said Dr. Arunesh Kumar, senior consultant and head of the department of pulmonology at Paras Hospital, Gurugram.
Dr Kumar further added, “People who have a history of respiratory diseases like asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease tend to show worsening symptoms. Therefore, it is important that maintenance treatment for these diseases is strictly followed. Go and anyone should go to a doctor if they notice that symptoms are starting to get worse.”
Dr Shuchin Bajaj, Founder Director, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals said that with winter conditions, dust and particulate material from vehicular pollution and smoke from firecrackers have created a smog-like situation.
“The dangerous mix of pollutants in the air also increases the risk of lung cancer, as does smoked cigarette toxins. For children growing up in highly polluted cities like Delhi and Gurugram, the effects of this hazardous air are due to their underdevelopment. can be devastating to the lungs and respiratory system,” Dr. Bajaj said.
He further said that there was a significant increase in general complaints including cough and breathlessness among people reporting respiratory problems in such weather and environmental conditions.
“It is well known that burning fireworks releases a toxic mixture of gases that include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide and even manganese and cadmium particles into the atmosphere. This means that a city dweller is practically They are breathing seriously toxic air, which is seriously affecting their lung health. It would not be a surprise if our pulmonary department would be filled with patients,” said Dr. Bajaj.
Speaking about the precautions to be taken, Dr Kumar said, “We should have a balanced diet which is rich in protein and avoid outdoor activities between 7-10 am and 5-9 pm during times of extreme pollution. needed. .”
He further instructed that if one is on inhaler and tablet, he/she should strictly follow it.
“People who do not already have a respiratory illness should monitor their symptoms and, once again, try to avoid outdoor exercise during peak hours of pollution. One should exercise indoors and do yoga. These are great ways to keep your lungs fit.” Dr. Kumar.
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