World Pneumonia Day 2024
There is poison in the air of Delhi-NCR these days. The situation is such that every second person is surrounded by many health related problems due to polluted air. But do you know that due to air pollution you can also become vulnerable to pneumonia. The air you are breathing is causing infection inside your lungs. In such a situation, Dr. Akash Shah, Consultant Pathologist-Newberg Diagnostics, is telling us how air pollution causes pneumonia and which people are at greater risk and how to protect yourself?
How does air pollution cause pneumonia?
Air pollution rapidly increases respiratory diseases, including pneumonia. This disease occurs due to infection in the lungs. Let us tell you, pollutants like particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and ground-level ozone weaken respiratory protection, making the lungs vulnerable to bacterial, viral infections that cause pneumonia. . Small particulate matter can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing inflammation and impairing the immune response, increasing susceptibility to infection.
Which people are at greater risk:
The risk of getting pneumonia due to exposure to air pollution is higher in children and elderly people. Young children, whose immune system is weak. At the same time, older people also face this risk, because their immune defenses weaken with age. Also, people with health conditions like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart disease are more likely to suffer from pneumonia when exposed to air pollution. People living in polluted urban areas or having occupational exposure to pollutants can also become vulnerable to this disease.
How to protect yourself?
To avoid pneumonia caused by pollution, avoid going out in the morning and evening when pollution is at its peak. Use an air purifier indoors to reduce exposure to airborne particles. Wearing a mask can also help filter pollutants, especially during times of high pollution. Additionally, maintain a healthy immune system through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. By adopting these, individuals can reduce the risk of pneumonia caused by air pollution.
Latest Health News
