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Delhi Air: Even Healthy Lungs Can't Escape Smog
2 Nov
Summary
- Polluted air affects nearly every body organ, harming lungs and heart.
- PM2.5 particles enter bloodstream, causing inflammation and disease risk.
- Healthy lungs are vulnerable to long-term pollution effects.
- Children and older adults need extra protection from poor air quality.
New Delhi's air quality has significantly worsened, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) entering the 'very poor' category due to pervasive smog. This deterioration highlights the extensive health risks associated with polluted air, which medical experts state can impact nearly every organ in the body. The lungs and cardiovascular system bear the brunt of this exposure.
Fine particulate matter, specifically PM2.5, can travel deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. This infiltration triggers inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially worsening existing respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, and increasing the risk of heart disease, hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes. Even individuals with previously healthy lungs are susceptible to temporary symptoms and long-term damage.
Children, whose lungs are still developing, and older adults, who may have reduced physiological reserves, are particularly vulnerable. Both groups require enhanced protection during periods of poor air quality. Precautions include limiting outdoor activities, keeping windows closed, using air purifiers, and wearing N95 masks when necessary. Patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions must adhere to their treatment plans and seek medical attention for worsening symptoms.
