Fresh Air for Better Health

Dr Suranjit Chatterjee list down a few tips to prevent yourself from post-diwali pollution

Despite there being a ban on crackers in Delhi this time around, the air quality is still appalling. Delhi has persistently ranked in the list of some of the world’s worst places in terms of air quality. While the Government is trying to sort out this mess, it is pertinent that an average common man is aware about how to protect himself from this alarming pollution that has left the capital gasping. Here are a few tips:

• Trying to stay indoors as much as possible: For many, it isn’t a feasible option. A daily labourer or a delivery man doesn’t have a choice to sit in a nice cosy office and avoid breathing in the polluted air. But for those who do have this choice, take it. Try not to spend too much time outside, breathing in the harmful pollutants and gases. Children and elder people especially must stay away from the polluted air.
• Avoid going outside during early mornings and evenings: Pollutants are more concentrated during these times as there is no sun. Avoid going outside during these time. You may have to adjust your fitness regime accordingly, but it is the lesser of the two evils.
• Wear a mask: Being outside the comfort of home or office can’t be avoided all the time. In this situation, wear a protective mask of good quality which can reduce the number of pollutants you end up inhaling. A wet cloth can also be used as a mask for the same purpose.
• Keep an inhaler ready: For people with weak lungs or diseases like asthma, it is essential that they keep supplies like inhaler and their general medication handy. Air pollutants tend to worsen these diseases. If despite using your medication you have trouble breathing, contact your doctor immediately.
• Buy an air-purifier: While staying indoors is safer than being outside, the only way to ensure maximum precaution is to buy and install an air-purifier in your home (and your work place if needed). While it is not a fail-safe against the air pollution, it does significantly help in reducing the number of pollutants you would otherwise end up breathing in.
• Consume a healthy diet: It helps your body fight against the pollutants, but eating healthy for a day or two will not show miraculous effects. A healthy diet and lifestyle must be a constant part of one’s life.

The writer is senior consultant- internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Dehi.