Doctors warn residents may be inhaling a mix of dust, chemical fumes and smoke
Dr R S Mishra, principal director and head of internal medicine at Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, points out that PM2.5 particles can enter the bloodstream and trigger inflammation, placing additional stress on the heart and blood vessels.
Dr (Maj) Rajesh Bhardwaj, founder of MedFirst ENT Centre, says repeated sneezing, itching, watery nasal discharge and coughing immediately after dust exposure are more likely to indicate an allergy, while fever, body aches and a progressively worsening sore throat may point to an infection. Dr Avi Kumar, additional director of pulmonology at Fortis, says the risk is not limited to immediate irritation. The exposure often begins inside homes. Intensive sweeping, dry dusting and shifting stored household items can release dust, mould spores and allergens into the air. When combined with fumes from strong cleaning agents, these can trigger allergic reactions and worsen asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). He cautions against unnecessary medication, particularly antibiotics, for allergy-related symptoms. Dr Neetu Jain, senior consultant in pulmonology, critical care and sleep medicine at PSRI Hospital, explains that inhaling dust particles along with chemical fumes can damage the airway lining, increase mucus production and trigger inflammation. In vulnerable individuals, this can cause sudden bronchospasm and affect oxygen exchange. Even those without a pre-existing respiratory condition may develop wheezing, chest tightness or breathlessness. The concern is likely to persist after Diwali, when firecracker emissions add fine particulate matter and harmful gases to an already polluted atmosphere. Fine particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravate existing respiratory conditions and, with prolonged exposure, increase the risk of lung cancer and heart disease. Children, older adults, pregnant women and those with underlying heart or lung conditions require particular caution.