The air of the capital Delhi has become 'poisonous' even before Diwali. Due to stubble burning in neighboring states and other reasons, the Air Quality Index (AQI) has now crossed 400. It is considered to be of very poor level. Experts have expressed concern that the pollution level is likely to increase further after Diwali next week, as has been seen for the last several years.
Breathing in such air can be fatal. The deteriorating quality of air not only increases the problems for people already suffering from respiratory problems, but cases of respiratory problems can also increase in new patients.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the AQI around Anand Vihar in Delhi was recorded at 405 on Sunday morning. The situation is similar in other areas as well. For the last 10-15 days, the air in Delhi has remained at a very poor level. Health experts have appealed to all people to keep taking measures to protect themselves from pollution, wear masks, and not go out of the house unnecessarily in the morning and evening.
Respiratory problems in children and the elderly
To know the ill effects of deteriorating air quality, we spoke to Dr. Vineet Shukla, a respiratory disease specialist at a private hospital in Delhi. He said that for the last few days, the number of patients with respiratory problems has been increasing continuously in the OPD. This problem is being seen more in children and the elderly, young adults are also falling prey to it.
The doctor said that for those who already have respiratory problems like asthma or bronchitis, such air quality can increase many problems.
Lungs are getting damaged due to air pollution.
Air pollution is damaging the lungs. This also increases the risk of lung infections like bronchitis and pneumonia. Some studies also show that microparticles like particulate matter (PM) can reach the lungs through breathing and increase the risk of lung cancer. If you are also having any problem breathing due to pollution these days, then immediately consult the nearest doctor.
Dr. Vineet says, do not go for morning walks due to increasing pollution, wear a mask while going out of the house in the morning and evening, and do not smoke at all. It becomes very important to identify the symptoms of respiratory problems on time and get treatment.
What do experts say?
Dr. Vineet says, there is a possibility of many types of problems increasing due to breathing in polluted air. Excessive coughing and wheezing, irritation in the nose and throat, feeling pain while breathing, or shortness of breath can be the side effects of pollution. Apart from this, air pollution is also considered to increase the symptoms of asthma attacks or COPD.
Patients with symptoms of pneumonia and infection are increasing in OPD. All these symptoms can be serious, so it is important to avoid pollution and take medical advice on time.
What to do if breathing is difficult?
If you have asthma or any breathing problem and it is being triggered due to pollution, then immediately use the inhaler given by your doctor. If you are having trouble breathing, first sit in a comfortable position and try to breathe comfortably. Do not take stress, this can increase breathing problems.
To avoid problems caused by pollution, keep drinking plenty of water throughout the day so that the airways remain moist. Do exercises like Pranayam. Smoking is your biggest enemy, it can increase breathing problems. So do not smoke at all. Breathing problems are considered emergency problems, so it is important to consult a doctor in time.
(PC: Adobe stock)
