[ad_1]
Indian cities, especially the national capital Delhi, are currently in danger as toxic air returns and poor air quality index (AQI) reaches dangerous levels, threatening the health of residents. People with respiratory problems such as chronic heart or lung diseases will certainly suffer, while experts warn that the viral infection could also aggravate health problems.
According to data from the System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), Delhi’s overall AQI remained in the ‘very poor’ category. According to forecast by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, the already deteriorating air quality in the national capital after Dussehra and ahead of Diwali festivities due to stubble burning in nearby areas could further worsen the AQI by Sunday.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Sachin Kumar, senior consultant, pulmonology and critical care medicine, Bengaluru, shared, “Children below eighteen years of age, adults above sixty-five, diabetics and pregnant women should all “Considered high risk.” Categories. Due to prolonged exposure, people who are active outdoors, such as outdoor workers and serious exercisers, may also be at increased risk. Since they will likely be the first to feel the effects of air or particle pollution, all of these groups should take extra precautions to keep themselves safe.
Emphasizing that people, especially those with pre-existing conditions, must get flu and pneumococcal vaccination. Dr. Sachin Kumar suggested some precautionary steps that should be taken –
1. Monitoring of Air Quality Index (AQI):
When AQI is above 300 it is considered dangerous. However, moderate AQI can also be harmful. Additionally, with winter temperatures on the verge of entry, air conditions are set to deteriorate further as warm air rises, allowing pollutants to spread into the upper atmosphere. In the inverse case, warm air carrying pollutants (toxic particles PM2.5 and PM10) traps cold air closer to the ground. So, monitor the AQI to gauge what the next step should be. AQI is considered good when it is 0 to 49.
2. Stay indoors during peak pollution hours:
Limit your outdoor activities, especially when roads are busy.
3. Step out with a proper mask:
Whether it is Covid or not, people should wear N95 or P100 masks as these masks have better filtration properties, thereby preventing toxic particles and contaminating themselves and others.
4. Keep your home and surroundings clean:
Use air purifiers and hang lush pants inside your home that can help purify the air for proper oxygen circulation and reduce indoor pollutants.
5. Check what you eat:
Always prepare a balanced diet containing lots of nutrition like proteins, carbs, fats, vitamins and antioxidants as they can keep your respiratory health in good shape.
6. Drink enough water:
Water can purify your body by flushing out toxins from your body. Therefore, drink the minimum recommended amount of water every day.
7. Consult your doctor:
People with pre-existing respiratory problems should consult their doctors immediately.
8. Medicines:
People with other pre-existing health problems should take their medicines regularly.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
[ad_2]
