Diwali festivities are over. The end of the festivities is surely depressing because we return to old routines. Not to mention, like every year after Diwali, pollution has also increased. You can see gray skies and a burning smell in the air. If you can feel all this, imagine the effect of pollution or a high AQI on the lungs, especially in people who suffer from asthma.
For people with asthma, poor air quality is not just an inconvenience: it is a serious health hazard. Days with a high air quality index (AQI), often marked by smog, vehicle emissions, and industrial pollutants, can worsen asthma symptoms, making it difficult to breathe, triggering coughing fits, and leading to severe asthma attacks. The Air Quality Index (AQI) measures air pollution levels, which can have direct effects on respiratory health. For asthma sufferers, particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone and other pollutants can irritate the airways and inflame the lungs. When AQI levels are high, it is essential to minimize exposure and adopt preventative strategies.
Since AQI levels increase this time of year, asthma patients should be especially vigilant to prevent complications. Here is a guide on essential steps for asthma patients to protect themselves and manage their symptoms when air quality drops.
Tips to control asthma in conditions of high ACI
Plan ahead
It is essential to periodically monitor the ICA in your area. Several weather apps and services provide real-time AQI updates, allowing asthma patients to anticipate days with poor air quality and plan accordingly. On days when the AQI is forecast to be high, it is advisable to minimize outdoor activities, particularly during the midday and evening hours when pollution levels are at their peak.
Limit outdoor exposure
Staying indoors as much as possible is one of the easiest ways to reduce exposure to pollutants. If you need to go out, try to limit your time outdoors and schedule necessary tasks early in the morning or late at night, when AQI levels tend to be lower. Additionally, choosing routes with less traffic congestion can help minimize exposure to vehicle emissions.
Use air purifiers at home
Investing in a high-quality air purifier equipped with HEPA filters can significantly reduce indoor pollution levels. Air purifiers work by trapping airborne particles, which is especially useful on high AQI days, when outside air can leak inside through windows or ventilation systems. Place air purifiers in the rooms where you spend the most time, such as the bedroom or living room, to create a safer breathing environment.
Wear protective masks when you go out
If you must go outdoors, it is essential to wear a mask specifically designed to filter out contaminants, such as an N95 mask. Unlike regular masks, N95 masks can filter out most of the fine particles present in polluted air, offering an extra layer of protection for those with sensitive airways.
Avoid physical exertion outdoors
Performing physical activities, such as jogging or cycling, during high AQI days can cause more pollutants to enter the lungs due to increased breathing rate. It is best to exercise indoors in a controlled environment when outdoor air quality is poor. If indoor exercise isn’t possible, consider simple exercises that don’t require intense breathing or effort.
Follow an asthma action plan
Asthma action plans, usually developed with a doctor, include personalized guidelines on managing asthma symptoms based on different levels of exposure to triggers. It is important to follow your action plan diligently, have reliever inhalers on hand, and adjust your medication based on your doctor’s advice on days when your AQI is high. Patients should also watch for early warning signs, such as difficulty breathing, which may indicate worsening asthma.
Wisely increase interior ventilation
On days when the AQI is low, ventilate your home early in the morning or late at night to improve indoor air quality. However, during periods of high AQI, it is advisable to keep windows and doors closed to prevent the entry of outside air. This approach can help maintain a cleaner, more breathable indoor environment by protecting it from outdoor contaminants.
Maintain good hydration and nutrition
Staying hydrated helps keep mucus in your respiratory tract thin, making it easier to expel particles and irritants. Additionally, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and vitamin E, can help the body fight inflammation caused by pollution. Eating foods such as berries, oranges, nuts, and leafy greens can help strengthen the body’s response to respiratory irritants.
Limit the use of indoor pollutants
Common indoor pollutants, such as cooking smoke, candles, and chemical cleaning agents, can worsen asthma symptoms on high AQI days. Whenever possible, avoid using items that produce smoke or fumes and opt for natural or non-toxic cleaning products. Ventilate after cooking to allow smoke to dissipate and consider using exhaust fans to maintain indoor air quality.
Use natural remedies for added relief
Some natural remedies, such as steam inhalation, can help soothe irritated airways by reducing mucus buildup. Herbal teas with ingredients such as ginger or turmeric are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and may offer mild relief from respiratory discomfort. However, always consult your healthcare provider before trying new remedies.
Final thoughts
High AQI days are challenging for everyone, but for people with asthma, they carry additional health risks. The key is to stay informed, plan for contamination levels and take preventive measures. Stay on guard, stay protected.
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