Diwali is a time for happiness and making timeless memories with loved ones, but along comes a silent threat to your health. In NCR, things are particularly concerning. The smoke released from firecrackers, coupled with seasonal burning of stubble in neighbouring regions, creates a thick blanket of smog containing fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxide, and carbon monoxide - all of which can affect respiratory health. In this article, we will explain how air pollution impacts the lungs, highlight the warning signs to watch out for, and share practical tips to stay safe and healthy this Diwali. Let’s begin by understanding how air pollution affects respiratory health.
How Air Pollution Affects Respiratory Health?
Air pollution affects the respiratory system in multiple ways, depending on the duration and intensity of exposure. Pollutants such as particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides enter the airways and irritate the lungs, leading to inflammation and reduced oxygen exchange. Over time, this can weaken lung capacity, worsen existing conditions, and increase susceptibility to infections.
Common Respiratory Diseases Triggered by Pollution
Prolonged exposure to polluted air can aggravate or cause several respiratory conditions, such as:
- Asthma: Pollution can inflame the airways, triggering asthma attacks and increasing the frequency of wheezing and breathlessness.
- Bronchitis: Smoke and particulate matter can irritate the bronchial tubes, leading to chronic coughing and mucus buildup.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Long-term inhalation of pollutants can cause progressive lung damage, making breathing increasingly difficult.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Pollution-related respiratory distress may present as:
- Persistent coughing or throat irritation
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or pain
- Fatigue or dizziness after minimal exertion
Vulnerable Groups
Certain individuals face a higher risk of developing or worsening respiratory symptoms during Diwali pollution, including:
- Children: Their lungs are still developing, and they breathe faster than adults, which means they inhale more pollutants per breath. Their immune systems are also less equipped to filter out toxins, making them more prone to respiratory infections, wheezing, and allergic reactions during high pollution periods.
- Elderly People: Ageing naturally reduces lung elasticity and immune strength. Many older adults also live with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, or heart disease, which can worsen when exposed to polluted air. Even mild exposure can cause breathlessness, coughing, or fatigue.
- Pregnant Women: Inhaling polluted air for extended periods can reduce oxygen supply and increase oxidative stress, potentially affecting both maternal and foetal health. It may also contribute to complications such as high blood pressure in pregnant women or low birth weight in babies.
Preventive Measures to Protect Your Lungs This Diwali
With air pollution peaking during and after Diwali, taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the impact on respiratory health. Here are some simple daily precautions that can help limit exposure to harmful particles and protect lung function, this Diwali:
Stay Indoors During Peak Pollution Hours
Pollution levels are highest in the early morning and late evening when smog is dense and stagnant. Keeping windows closed and staying indoors during these hours helps prevent inhalation of toxic particles.
Use of Air Purifiers and Masks
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) purifiers can filter out fine dust and allergens indoors. When stepping out, using N95 or N99 masks offers protection against particulate matter and harmful gases.
Avoid Outdoor Exercise During High AQI
While regular exercise is important, outdoor workouts should be avoided when air quality is poor. Choose indoor physical activities, such as yoga or light stretching, until AQI levels improve.
Maintain Indoor Air Quality
Use natural air purifiers such as indoor plants (e.g., peace lily, areca palm), and regularly clean air filters and surfaces where dust accumulates. Avoid lighting incense sticks or candles that can add to indoor smoke levels.
Diet and Lifestyle Tips for Respiratory Health
A balanced diet and mindful lifestyle choices play a key role in strengthening the lungs and protecting against pollution-related damage. Certain foods and habits can support detoxification and improve respiratory resilience during the festive season.
Foods That Support Lung Health
Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods helps neutralise toxins from polluted air. Include foods such as turmeric milk, ginger, tulsi, garlic, and amla, which have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, oranges, and leafy greens also support better lung function.
Hydration and Detox Practices
Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins and keeps the airways moist. Herbal teas made from tulsi, mulethi, or ginger can soothe throat irritation. Regular steam inhalation can also clear mucus and ease breathing discomfort.
Avoiding Smoking and Second-hand Smoke
Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke adds harmful chemicals to already polluted air, compounding the damage to the lungs. Avoid smoking indoors, and ensure children and elderly family members stay away from smoke-filled areas.
When to Seek Medical Help?
While mild symptoms such as throat irritation or occasional coughing may resolve with rest and home care, certain signs require immediate medical attention. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to worsening respiratory distress or serious complications, especially for individuals with pre-existing lung or heart conditions. Seek prompt medical help if any of the following symptoms appear:
- Persistent cough or wheezing that does not improve
- Shortness of breath even at rest
- Chest pain or tightness
- Dizziness, fatigue, or confusion
- Blue lips or fingertips indicating low oxygen levels
If such symptoms occur, consult a pulmonologist or visit the emergency department at a reputed respiratory care facility without delay.
Safety Tips for Diwali by Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon
Celebrating Diwali safely is essential to protect lung health, especially when air quality in Gurgaon is at its lowest. At Artemis Hospitals, specialists in Pulmonology and Critical Care emphasise adopting preventive habits that help reduce the harmful effects of festive pollution.
Here are some simple yet effective safety tips recommended by our experts:
- Choose eco-friendly firecrackers that produce minimal smoke and lower particulate emissions.
- Keep children and elderly family members indoors during high-smog hours.
- Ventilate homes during midday when pollution levels are relatively lower.
- Use masks while stepping out and carry prescribed inhalers if prone to asthma or COPD flare-ups.
- Stay hydrated, eat antioxidant-rich foods, and seek timely medical help for breathing difficulties.
For individuals experiencing worsening symptoms, Artemis Hospitals offers advanced respiratory care, including Asthma Treatment, COPD Treatment, and Respiratory Failure Treatment, led by experienced specialists at the Best Pulmonology Hospital in Gurgaon.
Book an Appointment Today
If symptoms such as persistent coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath worsen during or after Diwali, timely medical care is essential to prevent complications. At Artemis Hospitals, Gurgaon, our Department of Pulmonology offers comprehensive respiratory care for conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD, and pollution-related lung problems. We combine expert consultation, advanced diagnostic imaging, and specialised treatment to ensure safe and effective recovery.
To book an appointment with a pulmonologist at Artemis Hospitals, call +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp +91 9800400498. You can also schedule the appointment online through our patient portal or via the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, which is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Article By Dr. Arun Kotaru
Unit Head & Sr. Consultant - Respiratory Disease & Sleep Medicine (Unit I)
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What causes air pollution in Gurgaon during Diwali?
Air pollution spikes during Diwali mainly due to firecracker smoke, increased vehicle emissions, and crop residue burning in neighbouring areas. The combination of these pollutants leads to dense smog that can linger for several days.
How does firecracker smoke affect lung health?
Firecracker smoke releases fine particulate matter and toxic gases that enter the airways, causing irritation, inflammation, and reduced oxygen exchange in the lungs. Prolonged exposure can aggravate asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic respiratory diseases.
Can Diwali air pollution trigger asthma attacks?
Yes. For people with asthma, exposure to smoke and particulate matter can narrow the airways, triggering wheezing, coughing, and breathlessness. It is advisable to stay indoors and keep prescribed inhalers handy during this period.
How long does air pollution last after Diwali in Gurgaon?
Pollution levels generally remain high for 3 to 5 days after Diwali, depending on weather conditions such as humidity and wind speed. During this time, residents should limit outdoor exposure and monitor air quality updates.
Are masks effective against Diwali air pollution?
Yes, N95 and N99 masks are effective in filtering out fine particles such as PM2.5 and PM10. Cloth or surgical masks, however, do not provide adequate protection against air pollution.
Which hospitals near me in Gurgaon treat respiratory issues caused by Diwali pollution?
Artemis Hospitals Gurgaon is among the best pulmonology and chest care centres offering advanced treatment for asthma, COPD, and respiratory distress triggered by air pollution.
Should people with COPD or bronchitis stay indoors during Diwali?
Yes, individuals with COPD or chronic bronchitis should avoid exposure to outdoor smoke and dust. Staying indoors with clean, filtered air can help prevent flare-ups and breathing discomfort.
What should I do if someone experiences shortness of breath from pollution?
Move the person to a clean indoor environment immediately, loosen any tight clothing, and provide prescribed inhalers or oxygen if available. If symptoms persist, seek emergency care without delay.
