Delhi's Air Quality Crisis: What is Experts' Advice amid Dramatic Surge in Respiratory Infections

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the Delhi NCR region remains critically severe, plunging into hazardous levels and triggering a significant rise in respiratory and chest infections across hospitals. Medical professionals report a dramatic uptick in patients seeking treatment for respiratory symptoms, many of whom previously had no history of related health issues. 

The deteriorating air quality has placed immense strain on both healthcare systems and the daily lives of residents, as health experts urge heightened precautions for vulnerable groups.

Sharp Increase in Respiratory Cases

According to Dr. Sudhir Gupta, a Senior Consultant in Chest Medicine at Kailash Hospital in Noida, the number of respiratory patients has surged significantly, with outpatient cases nearly doubling in recent weeks. 

Many patients, he explains, are presenting with persistent coughs that do not respond to standard medications, further exacerbating the stress on the hospital's outpatient departments. 

"The situation is becoming especially challenging for individuals already diagnosed with respiratory conditions, as even basic treatments struggle to alleviate symptoms in such high pollution levels," Dr. Gupta noted.

Non-Allergic and Healthy People Affected

Alarmingly, people with no history of allergies or respiratory ailments are also being affected by the intense pollution. Dr. Avi Kumar, a Senior Consultant in Pulmonology at Fortis Escorts, said there has been a marked increase in cases with shortness of breath, wheezing, persistent cough, throat irritation, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. 

These symptoms are commonly linked to severe air pollution exposure. He said that many patients now experiencing these symptoms do not have any prior respiratory or immuno-compromised conditions, a development that emphasizes the severity of the current AQI levels.

“This is particularly concerning,” Dr. Kumar explained, “because these symptoms are manifesting even in individuals with no smoking history or prior health conditions. Yet, we’re seeing a rise in pneumonia cases that would otherwise be rare in healthier populations.”

Precautions for Vulnerable Groups

As pollution levels continue to pose serious health risks, Dr. Kumar advises caution for individuals with existing health conditions, particularly those managing chronic respiratory, cardiac, liver, or kidney issues. He urges these individuals to take extra preventive steps:

Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid early morning or evening outdoor walks when pollution levels are typically highest. Instead, if exercise or outings are necessary, wait until mid-morning when sunlight can help disperse air pollutants.

Medication Adherence: Patients should maintain a strict regimen with their prescribed medications. Skipping doses can heighten vulnerability to respiratory complications, especially in severe air conditions.

Reduce Market Visits: Limit exposure to heavily trafficked or open-air areas where pollutants are more concentrated. Unnecessary outings should be avoided, particularly by those in higher-risk groups.