Protect kids from pollution

Air pollution has become a major factor behind rising respiratory problems. Burning of crackers during Diwali releases many chemicals in air, leading to severe pollution. This causes serious respiratory and breathing issues, particularly in newborns and infants, who are extremely vulnerable because of their relatively high metabolic rate, underdeveloped respiratory system and poor immunity. Organ systems and functions in this age group are still developing and can be affected by air pollution. This can compromise a child’s physical and mental health. Therefore, it is essential for parents to understand the effects of pollution and take precautions.

How pollution affects

• Children’s lungs are still developing, making them more susceptible to respiratory problems. Exposure to pollutants can aggravate asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory conditions.
• Exposure to toxic gases has been linked to a significant rise in cases of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or sudden, unexplained death of infants younger than one year. SIDS is also linked to increased death rate in newborn babies. The risk could be higher for infants with respiratory vulnerabilities.
• Air pollution increases chances of upper and lower respiratory tract and ear infections. There is a significant rise in the number of bronchiolitis, pneumonia and allergic rhinitis cases in young kids.
• As newborns’ lungs are still developing, pollution exposure affects normal growth, causing chronic respiratory issues and reduced lung capacity later. Infants exposed to high levels of pollution may experience stunted lung growth, increased risk of asthma and other lung conditions as they grow.
• Increase in air pollutants can cause infants to wake up frequently or struggled breathing during sleep, disrupting rest and impacting overall health and growth.

Every year, I observe a 2 to 5 per cent spike in respiratory problems in newborns and infants, with increased cases of coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. Emergency room visits for asthma attacks and other breathing issues also rise post Diwali. Many infants and newborns often need treatment to reduce airway swelling and can sometimes require hospitalisation. Constant exposure to polluted air during peak pollution days may result in stunted lung growth, impacting lung capacity and leading to chronic respiratory problems later. Post-Diwali period also sees a surge in allergic reactions due to lingering pollutants, which can trigger skin and respiratory allergies in children.

How to reduce the risks

• Limit exposure to firecrackers through organised community celebrations or choosing eco-friendly alternatives. Kids above age 2 should wear masks when outdoor, especially in areas prone to pollution.
• Avoid opening car windows.
• Encourage washing hands frequently.
• Children should avoid outdoor activities when the pollution levels or Air Quality Index (AQI) are high. AQI levels of less than 100 are considered to be satisfactory. Parents should keep a track of AQI levels of their area.
• Encourage kids to play in green areas or indoors and do deep breathing exercises. Keep windows and doors closed when air quality is poor.
• Use air purifiers with HEPA filters inside the house. Kids suffering from asthma should be regularly checked by doctors and carry inhalers.
• Keep infants hydrated, and moisturise their skin to reduce irritation from dry, polluted air.
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  Protecting a child’s lungs during periods of poor air quality is extremely important as pollution has both a short and long-term impact. By following these tips, parents can help their kids breathe easy and enjoy the festival without any major problems.

— The writer is a neonatologist, Cloudnine Group, Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi