Health · Public Health & Disease · 2 hrs ago
Pulmonologist advises precautions as Delhi's air pollution worsens
After Diwali, Delhi's polluted air is causing coughing and headaches for some residents.
Fine particles and gases from firecrackers can irritate the airways and eyes, and may also cause sore throats, wheezing and chest tightness.
People with asthma and other lung conditions face greater risks, as do children and older adults.
To reduce exposure, stay indoors when pollution is severe, avoid outdoor exercise, keep windows closed and wear a well-fitted N95 mask outside.
Hydration and warm fluids may ease mild irritation, while people who use prescribed inhalers should keep taking them as directed.
Severe breathing trouble or bluish lips need immediate medical attention, as do confusion, fainting or difficulty speaking in full sentences.
Delhi is facing hazardous air quality, with pollution levels rising during and after Diwali.
Pulmonologist Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover advises people to reduce exposure by staying indoors, limiting outdoor exercise and wearing a mask outside.
He says pollution and firecracker emissions can irritate the airways and cause coughing, wheezing, headaches and other symptoms.
People with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions are at greater risk.
Severe breathing difficulty, bluish lips, confusion or fainting are warning signs requiring immediate medical help.
- Who
- Delhi residents, especially people with respiratory conditions, are affected. Pulmonologist Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover advises precautions.
- What
- Residents are being urged to limit exposure to worsening air pollution and seek help for serious symptoms.
- When
- During and after Diwali, as air quality worsens.
- Where
- Delhi.
- Why
- Fine particulate matter and harmful gases from firecrackers can irritate airways and trigger symptoms.
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- Pulmonologist
- Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover
- Hospital
- CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon
- Pollutants
- PM 2.5, PM 10 and harmful gases from firecrackers
- At-risk groups
- People with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions
- Urgent warning signs
- Severe breathing difficulty, bluish lips, confusion and fainting
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What people are saying
For mild coughing and throat irritation, drink adequate water, have warm fluids and gargle with lukewarm salt water.