Delhi on Monday reported an AQI of 221 at 8 am and remained in the poor category, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). According to doctors and health experts, poor air quality can worsen existing lung conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
Asthma and bronchitis are both respiratory disorders that affect the airways in the lungs. For individuals with these conditions, managing the disorder with proper medication can help maintain a healthy, normal life.
According to Dr Sourabh Pahuja, Senior Consultant in Pulmonary Medicine at Amrita Hospital, Amrita Hospital, both asthma and bronchitis are prone to exacerbations or attacks when exposed to certain triggers. One of the most significant triggers for these respiratory conditions is air pollution.
“When individuals with asthma or bronchitis are exposed to high levels of air pollution, the chemicals and pollutants present in the air can irritate the airways, causing the underlying condition to worsen. Even if the disease is well-controlled with medication, exposure to pollutants can disrupt the balance, leading to an exacerbation. This means the symptoms, which may have been under control, intensify, resulting in increased breathlessness, persistent coughing, and excessive sputum production,” Dr. Pahuja told Financial Express.com.
In some cases, the sputum may even turn blackish in color, signaling a more severe reaction.
“In extreme situations, these exacerbations can lead to respiratory failure, where the patient struggles to breathe and requires medical intervention. This underscores the significant impact that poor air quality can have on individuals with asthma or bronchitis. Exposure to pollutants essentially triggers a flare-up of symptoms, which can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening complications,” he explained.
To prevent such exacerbations, it is crucial for individuals with asthma or bronchitis to avoid environments with high levels of air pollution. Reducing exposure to polluted air can help minimize the risk of these attacks. Staying indoors on days with high pollution levels, using air purifiers, and wearing protective masks can be effective strategies for protecting the lungs from harmful pollutants, he said.
“Managing asthma and bronchitis requires not only adherence to prescribed medications but also vigilance against environmental triggers, particularly air pollution. By taking necessary precautions, individuals with these conditions can reduce the likelihood of exacerbations and maintain better respiratory health,” he added.