The capital Delhi-NCR is in the grip of severe air pollution these days. Degrading air quality can have serious adverse effects on overall health. Especially if you are already suffering from any respiratory disease, polluted air can increase your complications manifold. Especially people suffering from asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are advised to take special precautions during these days.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease refers to a group of diseases that obstruct airflow and breathing problems. World COPD Day is celebrated every year on the third Wednesday of November to alert people about the increasing cases of this disease globally and increase awareness about prevention measures.
Let us understand the seriousness of this disease.
First, know about COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious lung disease that obstructs airflow. Its symptoms include difficulty breathing, cough, excessive mucus (sputum) production, and wheezing. This is generally caused by exposure to gases or pollution particles.
Smoking cigarettes or its smoke also causes this disease. People with COPD have an increased risk of developing heart disease, lung cancer, and many other serious health conditions.
Air pollution and risk of COPD
Worldwide, air pollution is considered a major risk factor for increased incidence of COPD. Some types of air pollutants can penetrate deep into the lungs and cause inflammation. If you have asthma, air pollution can be a trigger.
When pollution levels are high, hospitalizations for people with lung problems, including asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), have also been seen to be higher. Both short-term and long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to the risk of these health problems.
COPD and its problems
People suffering from asthma have been seen to be at higher risk of developing COPD. If you have asthma and also smoke, the risk of COPD increases even more. Apart from this, people with COPD are also more likely to suffer from cold, flu, and pneumonia. It also increases the risk of respiratory infections and lung cancer.
How to prevent COPD?
Most cases of COPD are directly related to cigarette smoking, so the best way to prevent it is to stop smoking. Apart from this, this disease can also develop due to air pollution, hence one should avoid exposure to polluted air. Wear a mask while going to dusty and polluted areas.
Get annual flu vaccination and pneumonia vaccinations to reduce the risk of respiratory infections. Respiratory exercises can also help in keeping the lungs healthy and preventing such problems.
(PC: Freepik)
