Health Desk. Air pollution is becoming a serious challenge to people's health in many cities of the country. Dust, smoke and poisonous micro particles present in the air can reach the body through breath and increase the risk of many diseases. Its effect is not limited to the lungs only, but can also affect the health of the heart and brain. Especially children, elderly and already ill people are more sensitive to pollution.
1. Problems of asthma may increase
Pollutants present in bad air can cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tubes. Due to this, asthma patients may have problems like difficulty in breathing, cough and chest tightness. Many times, asthma attacks can also occur due to pollution.
2. Risk of lung diseases
Breathing polluted air for a long time can affect lung function. This can increase the risk of diseases like chronic bronchitis and COPD. The problem of persistent cough and breathlessness should not be ignored.
3. Increased risk of heart disease
Air pollution also affects the heart. Fine particles present in the air can affect blood circulation and blood vessels. This can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack and other heart-related problems.
4. There may also be a risk of stroke
Prolonged exposure to pollution can increase inflammation in blood vessels and problems related to blood circulation. This also increases the risk of brain stroke. Therefore, it is important to take special care of health during pollution days.
5. Risk of lung cancer
Long-term exposure to air pollution is a major environmental risk factor for lung cancer. Especially very small pollutant particles like PM 2.5 can reach inside the lungs and cause harm to health.
What to do to avoid pollution?
To protect your health amidst bad air, avoid going out when there is high pollution. Wear a well-fitting N95 mask when needed. Keep dust and smoke in the house to a minimum and do light exercise indoors instead of exercising outside. Contact a doctor if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or persistent cough.