Air pollution levels rise: What you need to do to avoid pollution woes and falling sick, as per experts

Air quality levels are constantly on the decline and there's more than one factor to blame. While there are rumours of a repeat lockdown being suggested, along with school closures, the pollution levels are extremely precarious for our health. More so, the symptoms are not just limited to itching in the eyes or coughs- pollution linked symptoms can be far more reaching, and impact vital health.

Also read: Groups most at risk from air pollution dangers

While there are links being drawn to a more intense viral season fueled by pollution, people with respiratory issues and other preconditions can be acutely affected by pollution ill-effects. Congestion, breathing difficulties, allergies, worsening asthma, fever, headache could be possible. Therefore, while it is extremely important to minimize your exposure and use masks when you step out, there are additional measures which can be taken to curb one's risk of falling sick from the nasty air pollution.

If you are at risk, we list down some measures to avoid falling sick, and avoid catching other illnesses at the time:

Those suffering from respiratory issues of any kind, including some COVID survivors have an extremely high risk during the pollution season, considering the risks of the particulate matter and other deadly pathogens settling in the chest and lung cavities. While doctors say that the effects of pollution could be seen in similar ways as that of an injured lung, those who have serious respiratory issues including breathing disorders, asthma, COPD should absolutely avoid stepping out in this air, since pollution could aggravate their issues and result in more symptoms. Do remember to keep following your medications, use humidifiers, masks, and if you need the help of external oxygen supply, make use of them. It is also suggested to do some helpful breathing exercises regularly to curb the ill-effects.

If you cannot avoid stepping out altogether, a helpful suggestion to minimize the harmful effects of pollution and avoid sickness, consider doing steam inhalation, and do hot water gargles on a regular basis. Since pollutants could settle in the bloodstream and cavities very easily, steam inhalation could do away with some of the symptoms which may crop up. Apart from this, doctors also suggest that since with the pollution, the weather can also change, one should dress accordingly to avoid falling sick badly. Other warm fluids, detoxifying teas and concoctions can also be included.

Now's a time as important as ever to safeguard your health, and boost your immunity to ward off any infections and limit pollution effects. With the seasonal changes, make sure you include plenty of Vitamin-C rich foods and supplements in your diet, along with essential minerals like zinc and selenium, which assist the immune system in doing its job well. During the pollution and seasonal changes, it's also advisable to make some changes in one's diet, which would help the body not just prevent infections, but also heal and soothe from symptoms. Apart from warm, detoxifying teas and kadhas, make sure you are having plenty of pollution-fighting fruits, veggies, add some foods which help you breathe easy, build up immunity, and avoid having foods which can aggravate symptoms like chest congestion.

The pollution season can hinder something as essential as workouts. While some times are simply UNSAFE to venture out (such as early mornings), if the air quality and smog are extremely worse during these times, consider working out indoors, or exercise at a time when the skies would be relatively clearer. This is a crucial tip for people with diabetes and blood pressure, since regular exercise is a way to naturally curb unstable B.P. and sugar levels, and a sudden change in the lifestyle could pose additional risks. Even a simple activity like walking or jogging should be done cautiously, and masks preferably used.

With the pollutants, the influx of viral ailments can take a turn for the worse and it's equally important that apart from the COVID vaccine, people get the updated flu vaccine shots at the right time, which is right now. Since the flu is a serious illness as well and poses risk, getting a flu vaccine would ensure that you get minimal symptoms, save yourself from the risk of severity and recover faster. It can provide additional protection from infections, and improve your immunity.

With indoor air pollution just as heavy a risk as outdoor pollution, doctors also advise that people install air purifiers, humidifiers (whatever is preferrable) to filter and clean the air supply inside, and help people breathe easy. There are a lot of options available, which help filter out many types of particulate matters suspended in the air. Air purifying plants can also be used. Another helpful tip is to regularly clean out vents, dust carpets, curtains and sprinkle water outside homes to avoid letting the polluted dust settle in.