Mumbai’s air quality concerns: Key illnesses to monitor amid festivities 

On Saturday, through a video, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Chief IS Chahal emphasised the ongoing efforts to curb air pollution in Mumbai. Chahal referenced the Bombay High Court's directive to restrict firecrackers between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. during the Diwali festival celebration and urged citizens to minimise their use as much as possible to curb air pollution.

With changing weather conditions during the winter season and increased air pollution during Diwali celebrations, medical experts in Mumbai suggest people limit the time spent outdoors and take precautionary measures to avoid respiratory issues.

According to doctors, it's essential to stay informed about air quality as a preventive measure to protect one's health. Dr Samrat Shah, a medicine expert from Bhatia Hospital, stated, "Staying informed about the change in weather conditions and air quality index will help people prevent themselves from unhealthy conditions. Citizens must keep an eye on weather forecasts and air quality indexes to be aware of any significant changes or pollution alerts in their area. They need to minimise outdoor time, especially during times when pollution levels are higher. If one needs to go outside, consider wearing a mask to filter out pollutants.

Dr Shah also suggested that creating a clean indoor environment is important. "Keep your home well-ventilated and use air purifiers or indoor plants that can help filter the air. Avoid smoking or using any other sources of indoor pollution," he added.

The medical experts further suggest that citizens need to seek medical attention promptly if experiencing any symptoms of respiratory distress or illness. With the change in season and the rising pollution quotient, many diseases crop up during this time of the year. Respiratory illnesses such as acute upper respiratory infections due to viruses such as influenza or other bacteria rise due to cold weather.

Speaking about respiratory illnesses, which are usually diagnosed during this time of the year due to pollution, Dr Paritosh Baghel, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, SL Raheja Hospital, said, "Allergic conditions such as allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are aggravated due to the smoke and pollutants in the air. Young children, the elderly, and people who have an underlying respiratory disease are the most affected."

Baghel, added, "Those who suffer from respiratory conditions must take extra precautions, such as avoiding exposure to dust and smoke, remaining indoors, and, if possible, wearing a mask while travelling or while celebrating Diwali. Don't skip your medicines and inhalers, especially if you have asthma or COPD."

Explaining why the winter season contributes to respiratory illness, Dr Sandhya Kulkarni, Consultant, Pulmonary Medicine, SRV Hospitals, explains, "The onset of winter brings with it a combination of factors that can contribute to respiratory illnesses. General air pollution is a persistent issue, with pollutants such as particulate matter, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide reaching levels that can be harmful. The situation is further intensified during Diwali, which often involves the bursting of firecrackers. The combustion of fireworks releases pollutants that can linger in the air, creating a hazardous environment for respiratory health."

"Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in polluted air has been associated with an increased risk of heart attacks. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory health conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may experience worsened symptoms due to exposure to air pollution," she further added.

Speaking about the impact of pollution on health, Dr Rajesh Sharma, from Sir H N Reliance Hospital, said, "Air pollution is the presence of harmful gases and particles in the atmosphere. Both short and long-term exposure to air pollution can have adverse health impacts, worsening respiratory and cardiovascular health, especially for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing health problems. Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, throat, and lung irritation, coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulty. This can cause worsening asthma and heart disease. Long-term exposure is associated with an increased incidence of chronic bronchitis and worsening lung function."

Echoing similar health impacts, Dr Sulaiman Ladhani, chest physician and consultant pulmonologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, added, "Understanding the immediate impact of environmental factors on our health is crucial. For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, these factors can lead to an increased risk of respiratory tract infections. Furthermore, those with cardiac illnesses are at heightened vulnerability, increasing the likelihood of cardiac-related ailments and heart attacks."

Giving recommendations for a healthy lifestyle, Dr Ladhani, added, "Citizens should consider indoor exercises, yoga, and cardio as viable substitutes for outdoor activities. Prioritising stress management and ensuring sufficient rest to fortify overall well-being is important."

Here are some tips shared by medical experts to help you and your loved ones overcome the health issues related to pollution:

• Keep an eye on weather forecasts and air quality indexes to be aware of any significant changes or pollution alerts in your area.
• Wearing masks when outdoors, especially during days of high pollution. This simple step can significantly reduce the inhalation of harmful pollutants.
• Ensure good ventilation in indoor spaces by opening windows and doors when outdoor air quality is better.
• Stay hydrated. It helps maintain respiratory function, as drinking plenty of water keeps mucous membranes moist, aiding the body's natural defense mechanisms.
• Avoid ice-cold items.
• Outdoor exercises should be preferably done after the smog disappears, as they can aggravate existing respiratory conditions.
• Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions must consult a pulmonologist for personalised advice and management strategies tailored to their specific health needs.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and immune-boosting foods like ginger, garlic, and turmeric. Consider taking vitamin C or other supplements recommended by your healthcare professional.