Air pollution: 5 tips to avoid respiratory issues

The air quality is expected to plunge further with the winter season approaching fast. Although the air quality post-Diwali has been better than in previous years, experts say it is because of the early Diwali and warmer temperatures.

Though post-Diwali pollution has not deteriorated the air quality much as expected, more cases of respiratory illnesses are expected to rise in the upcoming weeks. According to Dr. Sandeep Garg, the Senior Consultant in Pulmonology, the air gets filled with pollutants, leading to more respiratory issues. Dr. Garg said it is important to take proper care of yourself in the winter to avoid further complications.

Here are five tips to take better care of yourself this winter:


Dr. Mayank Saxena has recommended the following tips to tackle air pollution this winter season:

• Wear an N95 mask, and keep your nose and mouth covered.
• Always wash your face and hands after coming back home. Change your clothes after returning from outside.
• Keeping yourself hydrated is also very important, so drink lots of water.
• Eat healthily. Include more fruits and vegetables in your diet, and avoid fast food and focus more on getting a nutritious meal to keep your body in top shape.
• Install an air purifier in your home.

FAQs on the same:

1. What should you not do to avoid respiratory issues this winter season?
   Many experts have recommended against early morning walks as pollution rates are generally high.
2. How does air pollution affect the lungs?
   Particles like PM 2.5 go inside the body through the lungs and are further carried to different organs via the blood - which causes many health problems.