We are currently passing through another cold winter and added to that are recurrent spells of rainfall, dense layer of fog, smog and an ever increasing level of air pollution. Besides, the ambient air also contains large volume of moulds, spores and pollens.
According to a study conducted by World Health Organization (WHO) in 2014, Delhi is one of the most polluted city in the world and as per Center for Science and Environment (CSE) data, air pollution is the fifth largest killer in India. Most vulnerable groups affected by winter and air pollution include newborns, infants, young children, geriatric population and patients with pre-existing lung diseases like asthma, COPD(Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), bronchiectasis etc. Patients coming to us present symptoms like headache, generalized malaise, feeling feverish, burning sensation in the eyes, blocked or runny nose, prolonged duration of cough, excessive sneezing, sore throat, breathlessness and recurrent exacerbation of pre-existing lung conditions like asthma and COPD etc.
Due to extreme cold weather and air pollution, serious complications and even premature death can occur in people with pre-existing lung or cardiac diseases.
According to research average 12 hour PM2.5 concentrations in winter significantly goes up. These particles are so small that they can penetrate in to the respiratory system and cause negative health effects causing irreversible damage.
Therefore, it is advised to avoid heavily polluted areas as far as possible. People with pre-existing lung diseases like asthma and COPD should be educated about their diseases so that they seek timely medical help and adhere to their treatment as per medical advice. We must avoid burning trash, wood, polythene as these are major sources of toxic particle pollution. We must strive not to add further to the burden of environmental pollution by adhering to vehicle emission check rules and regulations.
The views are expressed by Dr Manoj K Goel’s, Director of Pulmonolgy and Sleep medicine, Fortis Memorial Research Institute
