Delhi Chokes As Diwali Smoke Pushes Air Pollution To Hazardous Levels, Children Face Severe Health Threats

Lifestyle News: The night of bright fireworks quickly turned into a morning of suffocating air. People across Delhi woke up coughing, with burning throats and difficulty in breathing. Doctors explained that the sudden rise in particulate matter severely affects the lungs. The dense smog reduces oxygen supply and makes breathing heavy.

Children and senior citizens are the first ones to feel the impact. Hospitals saw more patients complaining of chest pain and wheezing. This shows how celebrations often leave behind a dangerous blanket of smoke. Families who stepped out after Diwali found the air thick and suffocating.

Doctors Highlight Health Impact

Pulmonologists have warned that those with asthma, COPD, or heart disease should take extra care. Exposure to harmful gases like nitrogen oxide and sulphur dioxide makes conditions worse. Even healthy people report irritation in the eyes, burning sensation in the nose, and constant coughing. Medical experts suggest staying indoors during peak pollution hours.

Simple measures like drinking more water, avoiding oily foods, and using N99 masks can reduce risks. Families with infants and elderly are advised to use air purifiers at home. Doctors caution that ignoring symptoms can push mild issues into long-term respiratory diseases.

Children Face Greater Danger

For children, the damage from polluted air is deeper and more lasting. Experts explained that kids breathe faster and inhale more toxic particles compared to adults. Their lungs are still developing, making them more vulnerable. Firecrackers release poisonous gases that can cause coughing, nasal congestion, and even wheezing in children.

Doctors warn that repeated exposure may lead to asthma or slow lung growth later. Parents notice their children sneezing and rubbing eyes the morning after Diwali. The festive joy turns into anxiety as health complaints rise. This is why health experts strongly advise against bursting crackers near children.

Eye Irritation On The Rise

Ophthalmologists reported a sharp increase in cases of eye irritation after Diwali. Pollutants disturb the natural tear film of the eyes, leading to dryness, redness, and pain. Contact lens users suffer even more, while those with allergies face constant discomfort. Doctors recommend avoiding outdoor exposure during early morning and late evening hours.

Washing eyes with clean water provides immediate relief. Artificial tear drops can also help in keeping eyes moist. People are also advised not to rub their eyes, as it only worsens the irritation. Eating foods like carrots and spinach can support eye health naturally.

Pollution Control At Home

Experts stress that families should focus on indoor air quality during polluted days. Installing air purifiers helps reduce harmful particles inside rooms. Regularly changing the filters keeps them effective. Parents should avoid using carpets, as they trap dust and allergens. Children playing on the floor are most exposed to these particles.

Instead, clean floors regularly using vacuums with HEPA filters. Keeping windows shut during high pollution hours prevents harmful air from entering. Exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms can help circulate air without opening windows. Indoor plants like peace lilies can naturally improve air quality too.

Long-Term Risks Of Pollution

Doctors have cautioned that repeated exposure to polluted air is not just a short-term problem. Over time, it can damage lung tissues and reduce immunity. People may suffer from chronic asthma, bronchitis, or severe allergies. The elderly often complain of constant fatigue and breathlessness. Children risk slower growth of lungs and weak stamina.

Pregnant women exposed to smog face complications that can affect the health of babies. Experts fear that if pollution continues, the next generation will suffer more diseases. This makes pollution control a serious health issue, not just an environmental concern.

Need For Awareness And Action

While Diwali brings joy, the aftermath of pollution leaves behind health scares every year. Experts believe people must celebrate more responsibly with fewer crackers. Awareness campaigns can educate families about safe alternatives. Governments must strictly monitor firecracker use and pollution levels.

Citizens should take small steps like planting more trees, reducing vehicle use, and improving indoor environments. Schools can play a role by teaching children about eco-friendly celebrations. Doctors emphasize that every family should treat pollution as a health emergency. Only collective responsibility can reduce the dangerous impact of toxic air after festivals.