By Dr Udaya Sureshkumar

Mangaluru, Nov 6: Air pollution has become a serious health concern in many cities today. The increasing concentration of toxic particles in the air — including sulphur compounds, heavy metals, barium, aluminium powder, and fine particulate matter such as PM2.5 — poses a major threat to our respiratory health. These particles are small enough to enter our airways, causing inflammation and long-term damage to the lungs.

Changes in weather and seasonal transitions often worsen air quality. The combination of pollutants and climatic factors leads to respiratory discomfort, increased incidence of infections, and aggravation of existing lung conditions. The toxic pollutants in the atmosphere lower the Air Quality Index (AQI), and the resulting smog interacts with other gases to form harmful ground-level ozone. Unlike the natural ozone layer that protects us from UV radiation, this ozone traps pollutants in the lower atmosphere for longer periods, increasing our exposure and cumulative lung damage.

These environmental changes alter the body’s first line of defense — the nasal and respiratory lining — making us more susceptible to allergies, infections, and respiratory illnesses such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other lung diseases. A rise in viral infections and worsening of chronic respiratory conditions is commonly seen during periods of high pollution.

Precautions and Protective Measures

1. Opt for cleaner alternatives: Minimize activities that contribute to air pollution. If unavoidable, use certified “green” products that emit fewer pollutants and reduce particulate matter.
2. Wear N95 masks: Proper use of N95 or equivalent masks should become a routine, as it’s difficult to control outdoor air quality but possible to protect yourself.
3. Limit outdoor exposure: Avoid spending time outdoors early in the morning or late at night when pollutant concentration is highest.
4. Maintain indoor air quality: Keep windows and doors closed during high-pollution hours and ventilate the house well once air quality improves.
5. Manage existing lung conditions: Those with asthma or other respiratory diseases should keep their inhalers handy and follow their doctor’s advice closely.
6. Stay vaccinated: Children, the elderly, and people with weakened immunity should stay updated on vaccinations such as the annual flu shot and others as recommended by their physician.
7. Use indoor plants: Plants such as spider plants, money plants, areca palms, and peace lilies help absorb toxins like benzene and carbon dioxide while improving indoor air quality.
8. Consider air purifiers: Using air purifiers, especially when the AQI exceeds 250, can help reduce indoor exposure to pollutants.
9. Modify physical activity: Avoid vigorous outdoor exercise during high pollution levels, and switch to indoor workouts or play areas instead.
10. Adopt sustainable habits: Prevention is always better than cure — adopting eco-friendly practices and reducing pollution sources today will help protect the health of future generations.

By Dr Udaya Sureshkumar is a consultant pulmonologist MBBS, MD, DNB FPCC Pulmonary Medicine at KMC Hospital, Mangaluru.