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Diwali, while a joyful time of celebration, should be approached with caution to ensure that individuals with respiratory vulnerabilities are protected and able to enjoy the season without compromising their health.
Delhi ranked sixth on the list of India’s most polluted cities on October 26. (PTI)
With the post-monsoon season, Delhi’s air quality worsens significantly, and this increase in pollution levels is a health concern, especially for individuals with respiratory conditions. Dr Manish Garg, Consultant Pulmonologist, Curewell Specialty Clinic and BLK-Max Super Specialty Hospital, highlights the impact and offers advice on how people with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other respiratory issues can protect themselves from the health risks associated with increased pollution around Diwali.
Understanding the Rise in Pollution
Delhi’s air pollution escalates in the months leading up to winter due to several compounding factors. Stubble burning in neighboring states adds a substantial amount of smoke and particulate matter to the air. Alongside this, changes in atmospheric conditions during winter cause pollutants to linger and accumulate in the air rather than dispersing. The festive season also contributes to the pollution surge, as fireworks and crackers are commonly used during Diwali celebrations, leading to a spike in particulate matter and other pollutants.
Impact on Respiratory Health
While exposure to polluted air is harmful to everyone, people with pre-existing respiratory issues experience heightened adverse effects. “The pollution in Delhi increases post-monsoon due to a combination of factors such as stubble burning, atmospheric changes, and fireworks during Diwali. Year on year, this poses serious air quality concerns in the city, and while poor air quality affects everyone, to some, the effects are far more adverse than others,” states Dr. Garg. Individuals with asthma, COPD, or other chronic respiratory conditions may experience worsening symptoms or even require hospitalization during this time. Higher levels of air pollution can exacerbate symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, and chest pain, and, in severe cases, it may even increase the risk of developing these conditions in previously healthy individuals.
Practical Tips for Respiratory Health Management
To help mitigate the harmful effects of poor air quality, people with respiratory conditions should consider the following preventive measures:
- Limit Outdoor ActivitiesAvoid outdoor activities in high-pollution areas, especially on days when air quality is particularly poor. Monitoring local air quality reports can help individuals plan their activities around safer times, usually early in the morning or late in the evening, when pollution levels tend to be lower.
- Use Masks in Polluted AreasFor necessary outings, wearing a mask can offer added protection from particulate matter. Masks designed for pollution, such as N95 or N99 masks, can filter out a significant amount of harmful particles, helping to reduce inhalation of pollutants.
- Monitor Lung Health RegularlyIndividuals with respiratory issues can consider using a peak flow meter to monitor their lung function at home. By keeping track of their peak flow readings, they can detect early signs of reduced lung function, allowing them to take preventive measures before symptoms worsen.
- Consult with a Doctor and Have an Action PlanCollaborating with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized action plan is crucial. This plan should include steps to take when symptoms escalate, helping patients to manage flare-ups more effectively and potentially reducing the need for emergency interventions.
- Maintain Essential MedicationsFor individuals with asthma or COPD, keeping medications such as inhalers and bronchodilators readily accessible is essential. Regular inhalation therapy, as prescribed, should be adhered to without interruptions, especially during high-risk times. Having an inhaler within reach can provide immediate relief in the event of an asthma attack or sudden respiratory distress.
By adopting these preventive measures and making lifestyle adjustments, individuals with respiratory issues can better safeguard their health amid rising pollution levels in Delhi.
Diwali, while a joyful time of celebration, should be approached with caution to ensure that individuals with respiratory vulnerabilities are protected and able to enjoy the season without compromising their health.