Air pollution has long been a serious cause of concern, especially in the winter months, but the AQI skyrocketing in various major cities after Diwali has made it imperative that people start taking protective measures, especially those who are already dealing with existing health conditions, and children.
Any fall of more than three percentage points from their usual oxygen saturation should be reported to their doctor. “Patients with COPD, asthma and ILD who depend on home oxygen or BiPAP should ensure their equipment is serviced and monitor SpO2 using a pulse oximeter. Persistent respiratory symptoms should not be dismissed as seasonal allergies or routine coughs. Steps to take to prevent health conditions include:
“Medications should never be discontinued without medical advice,” stated the pulmonologist. “Preventive consultations and timely medical intervention can help vulnerable patients better navigate the challenging pollution and winter months,” he noted. Children are particularly vulnerable to air pollution as their lungs, airways and immune systems are still developing, Dr Nikhil Rajvanshi, consultant paediatric pulmonologist, allergy and sleep specialist at Rainbow Children’s Hospital, Delhi, told HT Lifestyle.
Dr Mittal’s suggestion for people with chronic illnesses is to remain in touch with their treating doctors, even if symptoms have not worsened, to review their health status and medications before peak pollution and winter set in.
