Diwali 2024: As the everyone is all set to celebrate Diwali, it is important to be conscious about your health. Diwali is often celebrated by gorging on delicious sweets, bursting cracker and uniting with friends and family. However, it important to highlight how it can often prove to be hazardous for those suffering from asthma.
Firecracker smoke contains several toxic substances which include sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and lead. According to Dr. Adit Zota, Consultant – Pulmonology & Critical Care Specialist, Sterling Ram Krishna Speciality Hospital, Gandhidham, the released particles are of extreme small sizes.
These particles are incredibly tiny and can reach even the smallest airways, eventually entering the bloodstream. Once in the blood, they can travel to other organs and cause extensive damage.
Generally, patients with lung diseases such as asthma and COPD would have significant symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest tightness. Dr. Zota maintains that smoke from firecrackers has the following impacts:
- direct inhalation causes acute congestion
- for patients who may have underlying respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD, or even chronic heart diseases, there could be worsening of existing symptoms by smoke.
“Discontinuing medical treatment can trigger asthma attacks, so regular check-ups are essential for managing the condition. During Diwali festival, the patients should be extra cautious by keeping a mask or handkerchief on the mouth and nose, and they should not discontinue their routine inhaler treatment, especially those containing bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroids,” Dr. Zota told Financial Express.com.
In addition to these precautions, deep breathing exercises can be beneficial in lowering asthma risks.
“Use of an incentive spirometer is advisable because this device helps in strengthening the lungs and managing symptoms better. Being indoors as much as possible and wearing a mask when going outdoors further limits exposure to pollutants and reduces the risk of a heavy asthma attack,” he told Financial Express.com.
What are the precautions that asthma patients should take during Diwali?
- Stay Indoors
- During Diwali, avoid stepping outdoors as much as possible to protect yourself from the effects of firecrackers
- If you must step out, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or mask
- Limit your time outdoors in the evening as pollution levels are usually higher during those hours
- Controller inhalers can decrease the chances of having an asthma attack
- Follow your prescription and take the advised dosage on a daily basis
- Avoid Alcohol
- Steer clear of dust
- Be mindful about your food
If you find it difficult to breathe, it is always advisable to consult your doctor immediately.