The national capital is witnessing a sharp increase in air pollution. As the air turns foul, residents of Delhi- NCR continue to breathe bad air, as the Air Quality Index (AQI) remained in the ‘severe’ category on Tuesday, as per Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Delhi’s 24-hour average air quality index (AQI) stood at 469 near ITO. It was 489 in Narela, 497 in Gurugram’s Sector 51, and 480 in Noida’s Sector 62, all were recorded in ‘severe category’, as per CPCB.
Thick smog envelopes Delhi; Air Quality Index at 469 in 'severe' category at ITO pic.twitter.com/9dSAbvNOWl
— ANI (@ANI) November 10, 2020
How does air pollution affect our health?
Amid the rise in pollution levels, people are having problems with breathing. Taking good care of the lungs is very important.
There are many organs that can be harmed, resulting in respiratory disease like COPD, bronchial asthma, fatigue, headaches, irritation of the eyes, running nose, and have effects on the cardiovascular system.
Dr. Rajesh Chawla, senior pulmonologist and critical care specialist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in Delhi explained, “Short-term exposures to these fine particulate matters are shown to increase the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems.”
Dr. Chawla further said, “With poor air quality, we are witnessing a surge in cases of asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), especially in children as well as office-goers.”
Here are some expert-recommended tips you can follow to keep away from the harmful effects of air pollution–
- Wear Masks: Wearing a face mask is the most effective way of keeping yourself safe from the impact of pollution particulate matters as well as Covid-19. N95 masks, which give dual protection, will help prevent tiny harmful toxic particles present in the air to diffuse into your respiratory system as well as protect you from Covid-19.
- Keep sanitizers away from fire: Refrain from using alcohol-based hand sanitizers before lighting diyas, candles, or any such thing. This is because sanitizers are inflammable and can cause fire hazards.
- Consume a Vitamin C diet rich: Try to consume fruit that is rich in vitamin C. It is helpful for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of your body. These nutrients help to strengthen the overall immunity of the body.
- Steam– Steam inhalation will help you get rid of all sorts of respiratory issues by effectively reducing nasal congestion and clearing mucus out of your lungs.
- Avoid Going Outdoors– Avoid outdoor activities and exercises for some days; try doing a workout, cardio sessions indoors. Practicing breathing exercises, and yoga asanas can help you cleanse your lungs and stay fit from inside.
- Proper Ventilation– Maintenance of proper hygiene, and proper vaccination which allow the air to circulate through the house, keeping it fresh from the complications of respiratory infections.
According to experts, pollution is in the severe category which affects the health of people and seriously impacts those with existing diseases. Patients who have recovered from Covid-19 and have any respiratory-related illness should keep their medicines handy and follow the above precautionary tips.