NEW DELHI: The overall air quality in Delhi and the national capital region (NCR) deteriorated to hazardous levels on Friday.

The rise in pollution levels is causing several health problems. People suffering from respiratory problems or those whose lungs have been compromised, such as COVID-19 patients, have a higher risk of health complications due to the increase in pollution levels.

Dr Ashish Khattar, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Venkteshwar Hospital, said that the lung functioning of several COVID-19 patients is already compromised. Due to pollution, oxygen levels decline. Because of air pollution, the rise in irritants would further compromise the lungs and they will starve for more oxygen and eventually become more breathless, he added.

Experts have stated that people with a history of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung disease (ILD), are facing health problems.

Dr Arunesh Kumar, Senior Consultant and Pulmonology Department Head at Paras Hospital, Gurugram, said that with the Diwali festive season and the winter setting, there has been a marked reduction in the temperature and increase in ambient pollution level. These pollutants lead to respiratory symptoms, like increased cough, breathlessness, sputum production and wheeze.

Dr Kumar added that individuals having a history of respiratory disease start noticing a deterioration in symptoms. Therefore, maintenance treatment for these diseases must be strictly followed. Patients should visit the doctor if they notice deterioration of symptoms.

Dr Shuchin Bajaj, Founder Director of Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals, said that with winter setting in, the dust and particulate material from vehicular pollution and smoke from crackers have given rise to smog-like conditions.

Dr Bajaj stated that pollutants in the air also heighten the risk of lung cancer, adding that among children growing up in highly polluted cities like Delhi and Gurugram, the impact can be devastating for their respiratory systems.

He further said that there has been a significant surge in people who are reporting respiratory problems in these weather and environmental conditions and the common complaints include cough and breathlessness.

Regarding precautions, Dr Kumar said that people should have a well-balanced diet, rich in proteins, and outdoor activities should be avoided during extreme pollution times, between 7 and 10 am and from 5-9 pm. If someone is on some inhalers and medications, they should strictly adhere to the treatment.

Dr Kumar said that those who donot have any respiratory illness should monitor their symptoms and avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours. People should exercise indoors and do yoga. 

Source: ET Healthworld