Air pollution does not always cause serious lung problems right away but can create complications in the long run. Dry throat, sore throat, cough, feeling of blocked nostrils (when you do not have a cold), hoarseness of voice, breathlessness while climbing stairs or after mild workouts among other symptoms might be caused by air pollution. “We do not pay much attention to these symptoms on a routine basis, but with time, such issues build up and compromise the airway mechanisms, damage cells in the lungs, and affect the blood vessels as well,” says Dr Pradeep Mahajan, Regenerative Medicine Researcher at StemRx Bioscience Solutions Pvt Ltd, Navi Mumbai. The national capital, among other states, was already bearing the brunt of stubble burning and Diwali celebrations added to it leading to increased pollution levels. Even young individuals are suffering from such conditions because of the current scenario. Air pollution should not be neglected as it can lead to serious health hazards. However, by taking simple and effective steps, people can stay safe and healthy.
Air pollution badly affects the lungs; similarly, Covid-19 causes inflammation in the lining of the windpipe and lungs. Both reduce the immunity and ultimately increase the vulnerability to the infection. When you have injured and inflamed lungs and a certain dose of the virus enters into the lungs, such people will be more prone to infection than a person with healthy lungs, asserts Dr (Col) Vijay Dutta, internal & respiratory medicine at Indian Spinal Injuries Centre.
“Post-Diwali we have got several patients who have recovered and are complaining about chest and breathing problems again. This is because their immune system is still running low. Having lung problems because of air pollution is aggravating the issues of Covid positive patients. Inflamed lungs will be more prone to infection than healthy lungs. We are recommending air purifiers and asking patients to keep indoor plants for better recovery and avoid going out these days, eat healthy and avoid morning walks as well,” adds Dr Dutta.
Air pollution is directly responsible for an increased number of people suffering from asthma. In the long term, air pollution can increase the non-communicable disease burden of India by making more people develop diseases of heart, lungs, and blood vessels, to mention a few. Elderly people, babies and young children are more at risk. Those living in urban slum clusters and crowded, poorly-ventilated houses are also vulnerable to air pollution, says Kamal Narayan – CEO of Integrated Health & Wellbeing (IHW) Council.
“Lower winter temperatures and the rise in pollution levels caused by the burning of crop stubble in North India could lead to the rise in Covid-19 cases. Typically Asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) infections are known to go up at this time of the year. People who have recovered from Covid-19 remain particularly susceptible as their lungs are still weak. Therefore, wearing masks and following social distancing norms is a must during this period and will not only help to avoid Covid but respiratory infections as well,” says Dr Gurpreet Sandhu, president of Council for Healthcare and Pharma.
“Environmental exposure plays a vital role in pregnancy. Approximately 6-8% risk has been associated with exposure to air pollution for pregnant women by increasing toxic chemicals in the blood and causing immune system stress, which can weaken the placenta covering the fetus and lead to preterm birth. Preterm babies born with low birth weight are susceptible to infections like pneumonia, asthma as lungs of such babies are weak and not fully developed. High pollution environment can also damage the brain and other organs of newborns,” says Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynaecologist and obstetrician and IVF expert at Nurture IVF Centre.
Parents must watch all symptoms which may indicate any respiratory problem in newborns, recurring cough, chest tightness, difficulty in breathing, clear watery discharge from the nose and sneezing should be informed to a doctor, suggests Dr Bajaj.
“A pregnant woman needs to be alert and take effective measures to protect herself from harmful air pollution by avoiding toxic air exposure, use of air purifier, avoid exposure to dust and use organic repellents, avoid travelling in congested areas as it increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes, lung cancer and other chronic lungs diseases,” adds Dr Bajaj.
According to reports, approximately 40% of all respiratory tract infections, and almost 20% of coronary diseases and diabetes cases are caused by air pollution. Residing in areas with poor air condition exacerbates such medical conditions and makes respiratory illnesses deadlier. This has become a major concern for Covid-19 as well. Several diabetes-related factors such as poor glycemic control can affect the body’s immune system. “When a person suffers from viral infections such as Covid-19, diabetes patients are likely to find it more challenging to manage the condition. It can also lead to secondary bacterial infections in the lungs, etc,” emphasises Dr Manoj Chawla, director and consultant diabetologist at Lina Diabetes Care & Mumbai Diabetes Research Centre. Short-term exposure to air pollution can increase your immediate risk of having a stroke if you have existing risk factors, such as high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation (AF) or diabetes. Studies have suggested that people who have a heart ailment and are living in areas where air pollution is worst are significantly more likely to have a stroke.
Dr Chawla advises, “Avoid outdoor exercises and walks in open spaces where there is a lot of smog and air pollution. Wearing face masks is necessary as it provides protection from air pollution as well as the virus. Frequent hand-washing with soap and water especially before consuming food or touching the face is recommended. Managing diabetes levels is an absolute must. Diabetics should regularly monitor their blood glucose levels and adhere to prescribed medications.”
The government needs to invest more in energy-efficient housing and power generation and manage industry and municipal waste effectively, opines Dr Sandhu. He adds, “The government must take steps to control the burning of agricultural waste and crop residue and prevent forest fires. It must encourage safe and affordable public transport systems and pedestrian- and cycle-friendly tracks. Strict rules and regulations must be enforced for pollution emitting sources and stricter action must be taken against those who break the law.”
Adding to it, Dr Mahajan says, “Government is making efforts to curb the spread of pollution; however, it is also our duty to protect our body and cell-based therapy, functional medicine, and a disciplined lifestyle are a step towards ensuring healthy lungs and overall health.” Every person should make an effort to modify their lifestyle by understanding what their body needs and adopt healthy habits as well as focus on enhancing the overall well-being.