Air pollution in Delhi has been a serious problem for a long time amid increasing cases of Corona in the country. The air quality here has been recorded in poor-very poor condition for the last several months. Health experts say, poor air quality can have serious side effects on health, not only this, people exposed to polluted air for a long time can also be at risk of developing many types of chronic and life-threatening diseases. If efforts are not made to improve air quality, it can emerge as a big challenge for health.

According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the average air quality index of Delhi was 340 on Friday. This scale is considered 'very poor quality'. Health experts have been alerted in many studies that deterioration in air quality can have fatal side effects.

Cold and pollution can be fatal
Health experts say, severe cold and cold wave outbreaks are being seen across the country. With air quality already at hazardous levels in the Delhi-NCR region, these conditions could become even more challenging for health. Poor air quality coupled with cold conditions can double the risk of brain stroke.

It is noteworthy that stroke is one of the leading causes of death after a heart attack. The incidence of ischemic stroke is much higher during the winter season, and on top of that, the level of pollution is considered to increase further concern.

Be careful about the risk of stroke
Doctors say, when the temperature drops rapidly during the cold season, it can have many serious side effects on the body. In cold weather, the blood thickens and the blood vessels of the brain shrink. Spasms in the arteries and increased pressure, these conditions are considered to increase the risk of stroke.

Apart from this, there is also a constant threat of air pollution due to smoke emission by vehicles, burning of fuel to heat homes, power plants, and chemical products. In this time of cold and pollution, one should be very careful, stroke is a life-threatening problem and anyone can be at risk of it.

How is poor air quality harmful?
Research shows that poor air quality can lead to the development of atherosclerosis, the researchers say. Atherosclerosis is a problem of the buildup of cholesterol and fat in the artery walls, which hinders blood circulation. According to the American Stroke Association, this condition is one of the major risk factors for ischemic stroke.

Apart from this, excess of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air can cause high blood pressure in both the short and long term. High blood pressure causes damage to the blood vessels, which can lead to narrowing of the arteries, rupture, or discharge. High blood pressure also increases the risk of blood clots forming in the arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke by blocking blood flow to the brain.

What to do to avoid risks?
Doctors say Delhiites are advised to be especially careful in this season. People who already suffer from high blood pressure or chronic diseases need to be even more alert. It is advisable to stay indoors to avoid the risks of problems caused by poor air quality and cold. Do not go out without wearing a face mask. One should avoid going for morning walks even in winter.

To keep your body hydrated, drink plenty of water and do regular exercise at home. Keep trying to keep blood sugar and blood pressure levels under control.
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(PC: Freepik)