Contributed by: Healthians Team
Introduction
Diwali festivities have kicked off with a bang, and after two years of Covid restrictions, the excitement of enjoying the festival of lights is obvious.
While the sale of firecrackers has been outlawed entirely or in part in many regions of the nation, the air quality has been deteriorating for a number of days now, which is troublesome for persons who already have respiratory or lung conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or COPD, to name a few.
As the temperature drops, contaminants become trapped at the surface and create haze, which might be extremely dangerous to many people’s health.
Here are some suggestions to prevent respiratory problems and breathing difficulties amid the ongoing Diwali celebrations and rising pollution levels.
What are the effects of air pollution on health?
Indoor Air Pollution
Everyone should be aware that indoor air pollution is more harmful and bad for the lungs, and that the only way to lessen it during Diwali is to use an air purifier to protect oneself from its negative effects:
Asbestos is a serious air contaminant that may result from indoor air pollution and cause illnesses including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. It may also contribute to the development of numerous other cancers.
Animal dander, dust mites, and several other microorganisms that are the main culprits behind asthma symptoms, throat irritation, etc., are also brought on by indoor air pollution.
The serious and potentially fatal lead fume pollution that irritates the eyes, throat, and nose, and produces numerous allergic reactions are also a result of indoor air pollution.
Tobacco smoke, a frequent source of indoor air pollution that causes respiratory irritation, pneumonia, heart disease, lung cancer, and bronchitis, is found in many houses.
Outdoor Pollution
The outdoor air quality always declines throughout the Diwali season, which is harmful to everyone’s health and well-being.
This outdoor air pollution causes a number of health problems.
Lung cancer, heart attacks, and severe respiratory conditions are all made more likely by it.
It produces smog, also known as fog with added air contaminants, which impairs lung function and inflames the respiratory tract.
Coughing and wheezing are the most typical issues that people have throughout Diwali. Higher air pollution levels harm the reproductive, endocrine, and immunological systems.
5 Tips to Avoid Breathing Issues post-Diwali
Wear masks
To protect oneself from pollution, vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and those with respiratory disorders must wear face masks.
Children and the elderly can use face masks when they walk outside during a polluted period or in an area where firecrackers are being burned. Those with sensitive airways should also wear masks.
Eat a healthy diet
Eat a balanced diet, stay hydrated, consume a lot of fruits and vegetables, and increase your protein consumption to strengthen your immune system in order to dwell healthy.
Keep the air cleaner on
One should make every effort to keep clean air within the home. Smoking within the house should be avoided since it contributes to indoor pollution. Also, get an air purifier to ensure indoor air remains healthy.
Keep emergency medicines handy
People who already have respiratory conditions should exercise extreme caution and keep in touch with their doctors so they can adjust their medications.
Emergency medicines, nebulizers, and other such items should be kept on hand so they may be used as necessary.
For instance, if you have asthma or any respiratory condition, you should always have medicine. Additionally, it’s crucial that we remain indoors with the windows closed to prevent pollutants from entering.
Avoid lighting paraffin candles or burning crackers
People with existing breathing problems should refrain from lighting crackers.
When visiting a location where people are burning fireworks, it’s important to take precautions to prevent breathing in the fumes and to abstain from lighting candles and diyas that contribute to air pollution. Utilize items that don’t cause indoor pollution.
Final thoughts
Diwali is the most exciting time of the year, with boxes of decorations to hang up, rangolis to make, delectable feasts to prepare and consume, and gatherings and parties to attend. The holiday season tempts us with all flavors of celebrations, with our home full of sweets and food, endless parties to follow, and fireworks.
But in the mood of enjoying festivities don’t forget your health.
Especially, people with breathing issues like asthma, lung conditions like asthma, bronchitis, or COPD should take extra caution during these celebrations. Here we have provided amazingly effective tips that can help you avoid breathing issues this Diwali in a hassle-free way and will not let any breathing issue stop you from enjoying your favourite festivals.
Furthermore, you should also undergo preventive health checkups. These health checkups give a complete report about your health, allowing you to take necessary precautionary measures to improve your well-being and keep various ailments at bay.
