Written By: N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe | Published : November 27, 2025 12:41 PM IST
Medically Verified By: Dr. Manav Manchanda
Allergies On Overdrive: The pollution level has reached an alarming Air Quality Index(AQI) across many Indian cities this season. People are reporting cases of visible breathing problems, sneezing, coughing, and irritation. One of the great concern among the numerous causes of allergic is air pollution, this includes nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, vehicle emissions, industrial emissions and gaseous material. Previous studies have suggested that pollutants play a crucial role in causing asthma and other allergic disorders.
In a study published by the National Institute of Health (NIH), researchers claim that asthma and allergic diseases cases have spiked in recent decades. The US health agency further reported that people living in urban area are more prone to allergies when compared to rural residence. Scientists believe that this is occurring "due to the interaction between chemical air pollutants and pollen grains."
"This interaction can occur through several mechanisms; chemical pollutants might facilitate pollen allergen release, act as adjuvants to stimulate IgE-mediated responses, modify allergenic potential, and enhance the expression of some allergens in pollen grains," the NIH explains.
Dr. Manav Manchandana, Director and Head of the Department of Respiratory at Asian Hospital said, "Pollution acts as an allergy booster. Toxic gases and particulate matter in the air overstimulate the immune system. This causes the same pollen grains that wouldn't cause as much of a problem on a normal day to cause a 5 10 times greater reaction."
What's more concerning is that researchers note that diesel exhaust particles (DEP) and enables allergen to become more sticky, thus, allowing them to stay in the nose, eyes, and lungs for longer. Dr. Manchandana further stated, "Pollution combines with allergens to create a kind of inflammatory cocktail. This leads to more symptoms like chest tightness , shortness of breath, and persistent cough in patients."
Anyone can get seasonal allergies, but healthcare professionals warn children and elderly people with pre-existing Asthma and allergies to be more cautious. Some common signs and symptoms of seasonal allergies you must watch out for include:
The best way to prevent pollution related allergies is by following this expert recommended measures:
"The combination of pollution and pollen is dangerous. The number of allergy patients will increase in the coming years. Therefore, awareness, timely treatment, and pollution control are all essential," Dr. Manchandana concludes.
Disclaimer: The content on TheHealthSite.com is only for informational purposes. It is not at all professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a healthcare specialist for any questions regarding your health or a medical condition.
