Smog leads to increase in respiratory ailments in Ludhiana

A thick layer of smog engulfed the city throughout the day and the severe air pollution caused by stubble burning has created critical conditions.

City residents have started complaining of burning eyes, difficulty in breathing, cough and pain in throat and chest. It has led to an increase in patients visiting OPDs and doctors are advising patients to avoid going out.

Medicine OPD of the Christian Medical College and Hospital has seen an upsurge in patients complaining of breathing problems. The cases have doubled in the past few days, said a medicine specialist. The air quality index (AQI) of Ludhiana, as recorded by the Central Pollution Control Board, was 218, which comes in poor category, which can lead to breathing discomfort to most people on prolonged exposure.

Senior Medical Officer at Civil Hospital Harpreet Singh said patients, especially elderly and children, were most affected during this time of the year. Patients with a history of asthma and bronchitis were among those who were worst affected. They should regularly nebulise or take inhalers, if finding difficulty in breathing, it is better to step out with a mask on,” said Dr Harpreet.

An eye specialist from the city has also witnessed a rise in the number of patients complaining of irritation in the eyes. “People should wear eyeglasses regularly to remove any irritants,” he said.

Ludhiana Civil Surgeon Pradeep Kumar Mohindra while raising awareness among the public about dangerous effects of stubble burning has urged everyone to take care of their health.

He said burning stubble significantly increases pollutants in the air, which could be extremely harmful, especially for children, elderly and asthma patients.

Dr Mohindra said the air pollution from stubble burning leads to a substantial increase in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), which could severely obstruct breathing. It heightens the risk of asthma, lung disease and heart problems among patients.

He also highlighted that pollution from stubble burning could impair lung development in children and increase their susceptibility to respiratory illnesses.

Dr Mohindra recommended that people with weak health were advised to avoid outdoor activities. Air pollution poses a serious threat, especially to patients with respiratory and heart conditions.

He also advised wearing masks outdoors and carrying medications for allergies and asthma.

Patients should Avoid going out, advise Docs

City residents have started complaining of burning eyes, difficulty in breathing, cough and pain in throat and chest. It has led to an increase in patients visiting OPDs and doctors are advising patients to avoid going out. SMO at Civil Hospital Harpreet Singh said patients with a history of asthma and bronchitis should regularly nebulise or take inhalers, if finding difficulty in breathing, it is better to step out with a mask on.

Precautions

• Wear a face mask and safety glasses while going out
• Go out only when necessary
• Stay hydrated
• Plant air purifying plants
• Wash your hands regularly