Published Oct 24, 2022 | 8:30 AM ⚊ Updated Oct 24, 2022 | 8:30 AM
The festival of lights falls on Monday, 24 October and so we have to be prepare top keep our lungs safe. (Creative Commons)
Diwali is celebrated by communities immersing themselves in lights and festivity. However, it also brings with it many lung and respiratory diseases, like asthma, allergic rhinitis, lung fibrosis, and bronchitis, as pollution rises.
One major cause of these respiratory diseases is the pollution caused by the bursting of firecrackers.
Also, after Covid-19 infections, the lungs of people who recovered from it have already suffered. In fact, such people are more at risk due to air pollution.
The festival of lights falls on Monday, 24 October. Given people’s propensity to burn firecrackers, we have to be prepared to keep our lungs safe.
Common symptoms that might arise due to pollution or might be signs of a respiratory ailment are:
“First of all, I suggest you don’t burn firecrackers. I know that’s not possible for everyone. Apart from this, people with pre-existing respiratory conditions and breathing problems should stay indoors and try to limit their exposure to smoke,” Hyderabad-based pulmonologist Dr Visweswaran Darisetty told South First.
“Also, avoid lighting candles and diya inside the house. If the smoke is coming from outside, try to cover your face with a mask. If you have access to an air conditioner, try to turn it on,” he added.
The doctors also suggest that a person who wants to be safe but also wants to burn firecrackers should keep N95 masks handy.
“The zeal for burning firecrackers is within all of us. But we have to be responsible about our health as well. So, if you want to go outside and burn firecrackers, but have a respiratory illness, wear an N95 mask, which is easily available in the market now. The masks will keep away the fumes from the fireworks and can reduce the chances of a sudden asthma attack. Also, don’t remain outside for very long, as it will cause distress,” said another Hyderabad-based pulmonologist, Dr SB Raju.
The doctors also suggested that people who have respiratory complications keep their doctors’ contacts handy.
“Give your doctor’s phone number to your kin. If some emergency occurs, the person will contact the doctor immediately,” said Raju.
Also, now there are green crackers available in the market, which should help ease Diwali pollution.
Experts also suggest the use of air purifiers at home, to make the indoors more breathable.
The use of eco-friendly diyas available in the market can also contribute to lessening pollution in the environment.
Wearing protective eyewear, so that the fumes and particles do not enter the eyes, is also a good prevention tactic.
