The air pollution in Delhi-NCR has been growing at such a sharp rate that it has come to be declared a public health emergency, as hospitals have seen an increase in respiratory and pollution-related illnesses. “Ozone, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide are all harmful gases filled in toxic air, thus posing great risks not only for lung health but also for multiple organs, including that of infants and children,” said experts.
Even healthy individuals are getting respiratory issues due to the level of pollution said Dr. Neetu Jain, Senior Consultant in Pulmonology, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at PSRI Hospital. “We are seeing patients with symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath. For those with a previous history of respiratory conditions, the situation has deteriorated and they often present with acute episodes, increased usage of medication, and ICU admissions have also increased,” she explained.
According to Dr. Jain, pollution affects not only the lungs but other parts of the body by causing high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, and impairments in brain functions. She explained that even unborn babies are not left out, as the toxins inhaled by mothers will likely reach their fetus, leading to the risk of growing complications and mental disorder.
Dr. Sandeep Nayar, Principal Director and Head of Chest and Respiratory Diseases at BLK-Max Super Speciality Hospital, also witnessed a 25% to 30% increase in the last month in outpatient visits dealing with respiratory ailments related to worsening air quality. “Many patients are experiencing deteriorating symptoms even after regular treatment, leading to hospitalizations and ICU stays,” he said.
Dr. Nayar discussed the health impacts of pollution, noting that the respiratory tract is the primary exposure point, leading to oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular damage across multiple organs. He warned that short-term exposure can result in breathlessness and chronic cough, while prolonged exposure heightens the risks of chronic illnesses and death.
Not only have cases of COPD and asthma increased, but non-respiratory symptoms, such as headaches and confusion particularly among children, are also on the rise. CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, Consultant Pulmonologist Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover reports that there is a spurt in pollution-induced diseases daily with 15 to 20 patients coming with symptoms such as a persistent cough and chest heaviness.
He attributes his sicknesses to the smog and an extremely high level of Air Quality Index; he says, “When AQI exceeds 600–700, it becomes a medical emergency, and people should avoid unnecessary outdoor activity.”
Dr. Manoj Kumar Goel, Director and Unit Head of Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine at Fortis Memorial Research Institute in Gurugram, confirmed an increase of 20% in outpatient visits for respiratory illnesses attributable to the poor quality of air. Common conditions include acute bronchitis, asthma, obstructive airway disease, chest infections, pneumonia, and sinusitis, with symptoms ranging from severe coughing and phlegm to chest pain and breathing difficulties.
