Delhi's Air Pollution Causes 30-40% Rise in Breathing Problems, Say Doctors

Hospitals in Delhi are seeing a 30-40% spike in people with breathing issues due to the city's worsening air pollution. Children and the elderly are most affected, and health experts are urging people to stay indoors as much as possible.

Why It’s Happening
Delhi’s air has been in the "poor" category for over a week, and on Wednesday, the city's Air Quality Index (AQI) hit 367, which is considered "very poor." In some areas, the air was even worse, entering the "severe" category.

Dr. Arunesh Kumar, a lung specialist, explained that the cold weather and still air trap harmful particles like PM2.5, PM10, and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). These tiny particles can cause serious health problems when inhaled.

What Are the Symptoms?
Doctors are seeing more people coming in with dry coughs, eye irritation, and breathing problems. Anshita Mishra, a doctor at Maulana Azad Medical College, said many patients in the outpatient department (OPD) are already complaining of these symptoms, and the numbers could rise after Diwali when stubble burning adds to the pollution.

She also mentioned that children in cities like Delhi are increasingly suffering from asthma and allergies due to the bad air quality.

Who’s at Risk?
Older adults are also getting hit hard. Dr. Mukul Mohan Mathur, a senior doctor, noted a 25-30% rise in cases of asthma and bronchitis among the elderly. He advised against morning walks or outdoor exercise when AQI levels are high, as it can worsen respiratory issues.

Around 60-70% of patients visiting hospitals right now are dealing with breathing problems, and many asthma patients are developing bronchitis due to the pollution.

What Can You Do?
Doctors recommend wearing N95 masks when going outside, as regular cloth or surgical masks won’t protect against the tiny pollution particles. They also advise avoiding outdoor activities, especially in the morning when the air quality is often worse.

Rajat Sharma, a doctor at UCMS and GTB Hospital, pointed out that air pollution affects more than just the lungs—it can harm the heart, brain, and even cause long-term health issues like fatigue, headaches, and insomnia.

Government Action
Due to the rising pollution, authorities have enforced stricter rules, banning the use of coal and firewood in places like hotels and open eateries, and restricting diesel generator use except for emergencies.

Dr. Rommel Tickoo from Max Super Speciality Hospital said that many elderly patients and those with other health issues are experiencing worse symptoms, like coughs and sinus infections. He also warned that long-term exposure to pollution can cause serious health problems, including chronic neurological issues.

Sources: PTI, Internet Sources & Twitter X 

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