5 ways how toxic smog in Delhi-NCR is affecting your lungs
Prolonged exposure to polluted air can play havoc with lung health and can cause respiratory issues. Here are ways toxic
Prolonged exposure to polluted air can play havoc with lung health and can cause respiratory issues. Here are ways toxic smog affects our lungs.
Published on Dec 31, 2023 01:44 PM IST 9 Photos
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Every winter, Delhi residents have to grapple with health issues caused by toxic smog which is essentially a mix of fog and pollutants. Smog other than affecting the visibility and preventing proper sunlight from reaching the surface also has serious consequence for our lung health. In a conversation with HT Digital, Dr Manav Manchanda, Director & Head- Respiratory, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Asian Hospital Faridabad shares ways toxic smog is affecting our lung health. (Pexels)
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The impact of smog extends to various aspects of our health, affecting our lungs, heart, and brain. Prolonged exposure to air pollution in the form of smog can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). "Individuals experiencing the effects of smog filled air may observe increased coughing, breathing difficulties, wheezing, irritation in the nose and throat, discomfort while breathing, heightened breathlessness during outdoor activities, exacerbated lung symptoms, frequent asthma attacks, or more frequent use of reliever inhalers for COPD flare-ups," says Dr Manchanda. (AP PHOTO)
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"The type and combination of pollutants, their concentration, and the extent to which they infiltrate the lungs collectively determine the impact of smog on respiratory health," says the expert, as he explains 5 ways the toxic smog can impact our well-being. (Sunil Ghosh/HT Photo)
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1. Asthma and COPD flare-ups: High pollution levels exacerbate lung-related symptoms, potentially triggering asthma attacks or COPD flare-ups. Asthma patients may find themselves needing their reliever inhaler more frequently during periods of heightened pollution. Consistent use of asthma inhalers is crucial in such circumstances. (Shutterstock)
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