Respiratory problems increase during the monsoon season due to factors such as dust particles, pollen, dirt and humidity in the air. Therefore, people are at a higher risk of developing respiratory infections such as acute rhinopharyngitis (common cold), pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks during the rainy season.

Monsoons are synonymous with respiratory infections among people of all age groups. This is because the air is full of moisture, dust particles, dirt and pollutants that can obstruct your lungs and airway passages.

Many people face acute rhinopharyngitis (common cold), pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks. The change in weather and temperature creates an ideal environment for germs and bacteria to thrive. It becomes necessary to take utmost care of your respiratory system HealthEspecially during monsoons, people are advised to maintain respiratory hygiene by disposing of used tissues, washing hands frequently and wearing masks when needed, to avoid direct exposure to airborne germs and toxins.

Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Sameer Garde, Director, Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Gleneagles Hospital, about understanding these diseases and how to fight them.

Common Respiratory Infections During Monsoon

Acute Rhinopharyngitis (Common Cold): This is one of the most common types of respiratory infections experienced by people in monsoon. The changes in the weather can cause colds caused by many types of viruses. Anyone can easily get infected with the common cold, regardless of their age. It includes symptoms like wheezing, sore throat, cough, cold, headache, and runny nose. The symptoms usually start to subside in a few days after taking the necessary precautions and medications prescribed by the doctor.

• pneumonia: It is a serious infection of the lungs that causes discomfort and difficulty in breathing. It causes the air sacs to fill with pus or fluid. The risk of getting pneumonia increases significantly during monsoon due to increased humidity and moisture in the atmosphere. People are advised to be cautious as it can spread through the mucus and saliva of the infected person.
• bronchitis: This causes severe inflammation in the airways of the lungs. Due to this inflammation, a person may have cough and nasal congestion, making breathing difficult. Bronchitis causes the airways to narrow and the flow of air into the lungs is limited.
• asthma attack: Asthma symptoms may increase due to environmental and air pollution during monsoon. Lifestyle Factors. Increased humidity, moisture and atmospheric pressure can irritate your airways making it more difficult to breathe than usual. Strong and gusty winds during monsoons can blow pollen and dust particles into the air. These particles can easily be inhaled as they are generally small in size causing breathing problems. Make sure you keep your inhaler handy to avoid further complications. People suffering from it should avoid close contact with pets as their hair and saliva can aggravate your symptoms.

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