Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases

By Dr. Salil S. Bendre in Centre for Chest & Respiratory Diseases

Apr 24 , 2023 | 4 min read

Air pollution is a growing health concern, particularly for respiratory health. With rising pollution levels, cities worldwide—including Mumbai—are witnessing an increase in respiratory issues. Pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide, pose serious risks to lung health, especially for vulnerable groups. These include children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions like asthma or COPD. This article explores how air pollution contributes to respiratory diseases, common health issues associated with exposure, and protective measures to mitigate health risks.

How Air Pollution Causes Respiratory Diseases

Air pollution results from emissions from vehicles, industrial processes, and natural sources like wildfires. The primary pollutants affecting respiratory health include:

Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10): Tiny particles that penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream. These particles are found near construction sites, busy roads, and industrial areas. PM10 particles affect the airways, while PM2.5 can reach the lungs' breathing sacs, increasing the risk of chronic respiratory conditions and potentially carrying cancer-linked toxins.
Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2): A brown toxic gas produced by vehicle emissions and industrial activities. NO2 irritates the lining of the airways, triggering inflammation and exacerbating asthma and COPD. Levels are typically higher in areas with heavy traffic.
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2): Emitted from burning fossil fuels, SO2 can cause smog and significantly irritate the respiratory system, leading to chest tightness and breathing difficulties.

Exposure to these pollutants over time damages lung tissue and triggers inflammatory responses, increasing the risk of asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Common Respiratory Problems Due to Air Pollution

Breathing polluted air can trigger or worsen several respiratory conditions, both acute and chronic. Some of the most common respiratory problems linked to air pollution include:

Asthma: Exposure to pollutants, especially during high-pollution days, can trigger asthma attacks and worsen symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath. Asthma rates have surged in urban areas with poor air quality.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Long-term exposure to polluted air, especially PM and NO2, can lead to COPD, characterized by chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Individuals with COPD are at a higher risk of flare-ups during high-pollution periods.
Bronchitis: Pollutants like smoke and particulates inflame the airways, leading to bronchitis. This condition is particularly aggravated by exposure to smoke and industrial pollutants.
Lung Infections: Polluted air weakens the immune response, increasing susceptibility to infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, especially in vulnerable populations.
Allergies: Exposure to pollutants can worsen respiratory allergies, leading to symptoms like sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes, which can escalate respiratory distress.

Symptoms of Respiratory Diseases Due to Air Pollution

For individuals exposed to high levels of air pollution, it’s essential to recognize symptoms indicating respiratory distress. Some key symptoms to watch for include:

Chronic Coughing: A persistent cough, often worsening with prolonged exposure to pollutants.
Wheezing: A whistling sound during breathing, often associated with asthma, which can be exacerbated by pollution.
Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing during physical activities or while exposed to pollutants.
Increased Asthma Attacks: More frequent or severe asthma episodes during pollution spikes.

These symptoms may worsen with time, and prompt medical attention can help mitigate their impact.

Tips to Protect Yourself from Air Pollution

Though it may be challenging to avoid air pollution completely, several strategies can help protect your respiratory health:

Monitor Air Quality: Use air quality monitoring apps to stay informed about pollution levels. Limit outdoor activities on high-pollution days to reduce exposure.
Use Air Purifiers: Investing in an air purifier can help reduce indoor air pollution, especially in areas with consistently poor air quality.
Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, engage in regular exercise to boost lung function, and avoid smoking or secondhand smoke.
Transportation Choices: Opt for carpooling or public transport to reduce emissions. This not only limits exposure but also contributes to reducing overall pollution levels.
Avoid Idling Your Car: Turning off your engine while waiting can significantly reduce harmful emissions.
Choose Eco-Friendly Options: Support companies and products that prioritize sustainability, as reducing pollution sources can improve air quality.

By following these precautions, you can lower your risk of respiratory health issues caused by pollution.

Expert Advice on Risk Mitigation

Healthcare experts emphasize the importance of pollution management, especially for individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or COPD. Here’s what experts recommend:

Avoid High-Pollution Areas: People in high-risk groups should avoid areas with high pollution levels and opt for indoor activities on smog-heavy days.
Use Protective Gear: Wearing masks can reduce inhalation of pollutants, especially during outdoor activities on high-pollution days.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water keeps the airways moist, helping reduce irritation from inhaled pollutants.
Follow Medical Advice: Those with respiratory conditions should keep medication handy and consult their doctors regularly to manage symptoms effectively.
Regular Steam Inhalation: This can help humidify the airways, relieving symptoms for those with respiratory sensitivities.