As the seasons change in India, a familiar haze begins to settle over the cities, especially in the northern region. This smog, a blend of smoke and fog, intensifies as winter approaches, posing a serious health risk to millions. The rise in pollution levels and the associated respiratory hazards has become a recurring issue, triggering concerns among health professionals and residents alike.
Speaking on the issue, Dr. Piyush Goel - Consultant - Pulmonology, Manipal Hospital, Gurugram highlights, “Respiratory infections are surging as winter arrives, coinciding with increased levels of air pollutants, especially in North India. There are several contributing factors to it, high pollen counts, low humidity, which stagnate the air, causing its inability to disperse pollutants and, therefore, results in the formation of smog.
Elevated levels of PM2.5 and PM10 particles, are very porous as well as deeply penetrating the lungs which aggravates existing lung conditions. Breathing in polluted air can irritate the airways, resulting in shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, asthma attacks, and chest pain. Excessive exposure to air pollution is linked to several acute and chronic respiratory illnesses, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, respiratory allergies, and in extreme cases even lung cancer. In fact, it not only triggers new cases of diseases like asthma but also worsens pre-existing respiratory illnesses leading to frequent asthma attacks and COPD flare-ups. Additionally, it can contribute to the rapid progression of chronic illnesses as well.”
Dr. Goel advises having a prepared plan of action beforehand, an inhalator one can refer to, especially in patients with asthma and regular inhalation therapy, monitoring your lung condition through a peak flow meter can be another step in maintaining care for your condition better as well. Basic measures such as keeping indoor air quality as clean as possible, minimum outdoor exposure, avoiding strenuous out-of-doors exercise, using masks, and keeping away from pollution hotspots will also help control conditions in these areas.
Prevention Measures to Minimize Smog Exposure
Taking precautions against smog is essential for everyone, particularly for those in urban areas where pollution levels reach alarming heights. Here are some effective strategies to protect yourself and reduce your exposure to polluted air:
Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid going outdoors when pollutants are at high concentration, usually during peak hours, that is in the early morning and late evening. Avoid strenuous exercises like jogging or cycling since exercising causes one to breathe faster and take in more of pollutants. If outdoor activity is required, try to schedule it for the afternoon, when the air quality may improve slightly. It would be better to schedule outdoor activities for later in the day, when there might be some improvement in air quality around the afternoon hours.
Improve Indoor Air Quality: Use HEPA filters in air purifiers and HVAC systems to remove pollutants from the air. Do not burn candles, incense, or use a wood-burning fireplace since all those can increase indoor air pollutants. It is advised to keep the windows open for ventilation if the outdoor air quality is acceptable.
Monitoring your health: It is of utmost importance to observe your respiratory health. If you notice some symptoms, such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or irritation in your eyes, visit your doctor. Patients with other underlying respiratory diseases, such as asthma or COPD, must be more vigilant about this condition and strictly adhere to recommended treatment plans.
Wear N95 Masks: If you need to go outside, wearing an N95 mask can help filter out some of the pollutants, offering a protective barrier. Unlike regular masks, N95 masks are designed to capture fine particles in the air, which can be particularly harmful. It protects your respiratory system entirely, since N95 respirators filter at least 95 percent of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, which is significantly more than regular cloth masks. These are highly effective at lowering your exposure to dangerous pollutants.
The N95 masks having melt-blown electrostatic filters provide better filtration compared to regular masks. These masks are also tested for comfort and skin compatibility. Savlon FFP2 S Masks are BIS Certified. Each batch undergoes rigorous testing on quality performance and efficacy as prescribed by BIS. By wearing a good quality, well fitted mask the effects of viruses, bacteria, dust, pollution, pollen, and allergens can be greatly reduced and can contribute to overall better health.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your respiratory system moist and can aid in clearing out pollutants. Hydration is crucial for overall health and can support your body's natural defenses.
Portable Air Purifier: As advised by doctors, a few precautions can be taken for people with an already infected lung disorder. It is advisable to carry a portable air purifier - this can help reduce the amount of polluted air inhaled, especially in closed spaces.
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