Delhi’s air quality has deteriorated and has fallen into the “very poor” category. The Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has ordered the implementation of Stage-2 emergency measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) to address air pollution in the city.

This means that various measures like water sprinkling, ban on use of coal and firewood and proper disposal of waste are being implemented. Meanwhile, doctors are urging people to wear masks and take precautions to avoid getting sick and protect their lungs and heart.

Dr. Prateek Chaudhary, Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiology at Asian Hospital, highlighted the seriousness of the impact of air pollution on heart health.

“Particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, is a major factor in air pollution-related mortality, contributing to more than 57% of global deaths from cardiovascular problems,” he said.

These fine particles, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, are linked to a variety of cardiovascular conditions.

“Short-term exposure can increase the risk of arrhythmias, heart attacks and even stroke,” warned Dr. Choudhary. “Long-term exposure can lead to plaque accumulation in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.” Is.”

The harmful effects of air pollution extend beyond the lungs; They can cause systemic inflammation, increasing the risk of chronic diseases.

Some groups are more sensitive to the harmful effects of air pollution. Dr. Vikas Mittal, Pulmonologist and Director, Wellness Home Clinic, said, “Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as heart, lung, kidney or liver diseases should ensure that they adhere to their prescribed medications and regularly monitor their health. Consult service providers.”

Dr Mittal advised that patients, especially those with chronic lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), should remain active when pollution levels rise.

“I call my patients before Diwali to provide them with a step-by-step plan to manage their conditions amid deteriorating air quality,” he said. The expert recommended that people above 60 years of age and children with co-morbidities avoid outdoor activities in the morning and closely monitor the air quality index (AQI).

What precautions should you take?

Experts agree on several precautions to reduce the effects of air pollution:

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• Stay indoors when necessary: ​​”Limit outdoor activities, especially when AQI is more than 200,” Dr. Mittal advised. “When you have to go outside in poor air quality, it’s important to wear an N95 mask.”
• Monitor Air Quality: Dr Vibhu Kawatra, senior consultant and pulmonologist, suggested using mobile apps to check AQI before stepping out. “Assess whether it is necessary to go out,” he said.
• Indoor Air Quality: Keeping windows and doors closed can reduce the impact of outdoor pollutants indoors. Using an air purifier and maintaining proper ventilation is essential to creating a healthy indoor environment. Dr. Kawatra also recommended adding some indoor plants that can help purify the air.
• Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamin C can help combat the effects of pollution. It is also important to stay hydrated and ensure quality sleep. “Practice of meditation can help reduce stress caused by pollution,” suggested Dr. Mittal.

• Avoid pollutants: Obstetrician and gynecologist Dr Shaili Sharma, senior consultant and associate director, Cloudnine Hospital, warned about the risks for pregnant women. “Air pollution can significantly increase the risk to pregnant women and their unborn baby, leading to reduced blood flow and oxygen supply to the baby,” he said.

Pregnant women should avoid highly polluted areas and engage in indoor activities whenever possible.

Experts said that as pollution levels increase, the health risks associated with it cannot be ignored. As we approach festivals like Diwali, it is important to remain alert and prioritize our well-being.