Delhi air pollution: How smog is affecting YOU!

Read to know the harmful effects of smog on the body.

Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published: November 8, 2017 10:25 am

Thanks to Diwali celebration and the on-going stubble burning that is taking place in the neighbouring areas of Delhi that the city is laden with smoke and pollution. The arrival of winter has led to a drop in temperature, causing the fog to combine with the smoke resulting in the formation of a less transparent, visible air pollutant i.e. smog. Due to high levels of pollution, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has stated that Delhi is in a state of “public health emergency”. Air quality index is very severe with high particulate matter at a 2.5 level in many places. A report in the Lancet medical journal last month said pollution had claimed as many as 2.5 million lives in India in 2015, the highest in the world.

Dr Vikas Maurya, Senior Consultant & Head of Department, Respiratory Medicine & Interventional Pulmonology, Department of Pulmonology & Sleep Disorders, Fortis Hospital – Shalimar Bagh, New Delhi talks about air pollution and the harmful effects of smog on the body.

1. Smog can lead to the onset of allergies or aggravate already existing allergies. So if you are allergic to dust or environmental toxins, it is wise to stay indoors that go out in smog. Also, people suffering from skin problems like eczema and autoimmune conditions like psoriasis must be extremely careful during this time.

2. It not only affects the lung function in all age groups but also decreases the lung immunity. Hence, the chances of suffering from lung diseases like COPD, asthma, bronchitis and respiratory problems is high. Here are 5 amazing tips to improve your immunity.

3. Not just in kids and old people, smog has detrimental effects on unborn kids as well. It might be instrumental in causing premature birth. Hence, it is advised that pregnant women must stay indoors and follow tips to stay healthy in smog.

4. It not only aggravates pre-existing lung conditions but can also impair cardiac function. It can lead to uncontrollable or chronic coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath along with increasing your risk of heart problems. Here’s more on how winter fog can be bad for your health.

Image Source: Shutterstock (The image is for representational purpose only)

Published: November 8, 2017 10:25 am

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