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October 27, 2024 06:24 PM IST
With AQI rising in many parts of the country, neurophysicians explain how it can trigger hemorrhagic strokes and other health problems.
Hemorrhagic stroke is a neurological emergency that occurs when a blood vessel inside the brain bursts and starts bleeding. It is life threatening and can be caused by air pollution. With rising AQI levels, especially in Delhi, Haryana, Punjab and other states, air pollution has become a serious health concern. The pollutants present in the air can affect every part of the body, from the lungs to the heart and skin.
Dr. Charulata Sankhla, consultant neurophysician, in an interview with HT Lifestyle. PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Mahim said, “Recent studies have revealed serious consequences of air pollution on neurological disorders. Air pollution is responsible for one in five stroke deaths. Various studies have also shown that air pollution is responsible for 30-83% of strokes.
Also read: Toxic air alert: How can polluted air harm your health from heart to brain?
Dr. Charulata Sankhla noted that the number of stroke deaths related to air pollution has increased, especially in low- and middle-income countries. One of the main reasons for this is rapid industrialization.
How can air pollution cause hemorrhagic stroke?
“It has been found that O3 found in air pollution triggers abnormal congestion in the blood vessels of the brain thereby increasing the incidence of bleeding. It has also been observed that increased PM diffuses from the lungs into the blood, producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to dilation of brain arteries. This increases blood pressure,” said the neurophysician.
Also read: High AQI alert! How air pollution can harm pregnant women, affect the health of the child
Prolonged exposure to polluted air can also aggravate pre-existing chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity. But the impact of air pollution on brain health is extremely worrying. “Several studies have shown that exposure to air pollution below levels set by WHO increases the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. It may sound worrying, but reducing the risk of air pollution is the need of the hour,” said Dr Charulata Sankhla.
Also read: High AQI warning: Stroke to cardiac arrest; Know about the hidden dangers of air pollution on heart health
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.
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