Delhi’s air quality has worsened significantly over the past few days. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Delhi’s air pollution level on its air quality index (AQI) was 364, a “very poor” category. An ideal reading should be within 50.

The air pollution is measured based on the matter density per cubic metre of air. For Delhi, the matter density was PM2.5 on Wednesday, meaning the inhalable particles are 2.5 micrometres or even smaller, which is a health risk. Also, Delhi reels under a thick blanket of smog each year, especially during the winter, causing many health problems for the residents.

Who Are At High Risk? 

Senior citizens, children, people with respiratory diseases and low immunity, and pregnant women, are more at risk from a poor AQI level.

The air pollution level drops alarmingly in Delhi in the winter due to a drop in temperature and low wind speed, combined with stubble burning, industrial and vehicle emissions, etc. Chronic exposure to poor air quality can cause bronchitis, cough, fatigue, eye irritation, etc.

Experts say PM2.5 particles harm vital organs like the lungs once they enter the body through the bloodstream. They can also cause cardiovascular, reproductive, and neurological diseases. Constant exposure to poor air quality can also reduce the life span. 

Dr Nikhil Modi, senior consultant in respiratory and critical care medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, says, “When people breathe in polluted air, particularly the dangerous PM2.5 particles, they get into the bloodstream and can cross the blood-brain barrier and alveolar-capillary membrane, leading to cardiovascular complications, including hypertension, arrhythmias, and increased risk of myocardial infarction.

“Chronic exposure is associated with cerebrovascular events, cognitive decline, and potential neurological disorders. Respiratory issues range from acute bronchitis and COPD exacerbations to increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.”

According to the Air Quality Life Index (AQLI) report by the Energy Policy Institute of the University of Chicago (EPIC), the acceptable air pollution limit prescribed by the World Health Organisation (WHO) is five micrograms per cubic metre. Delhites’ life expectancy can increase by 7.8 years if this level is achieved.

How To Deal With Delhi’s Poor Air Quality

Pause Outdoor Activities: Stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities whenever possible. Look for alternatives; exercise at home.

Plant Trees: Small plants and trees are natural air purifiers. So, plant them wherever you can around the house. Growing plants can also be a great stress buster, especially for senior citizens.

Air Purifiers: Install air purifiers along with other options. “Staying indoors can help with some protection, it's crucial to ensure proper sealing of windows and doors, and use of air purifiers with HEPA filters,” says Modi.

Eat Healthy Food And Drink Plenty Of Water: This will give your body all the nutrients you need to fight diseases, primarily related to air pollution. Eating nutritious food and drinking plenty of water will flush out the toxins from your body and keep you fit.

Wear Mask: Wear a facemask when venturing outdoors. But if you can, travel to some other place to escape the pollution, especially around this time. 

Finally, if you experience persistent cough with or without sputum, chest tightness or pain, unusual shortness of breath, especially at rest, wheezing, palpitations, severe headaches, dizziness, , eye irritation, and unexplained fatigue, consult a doctor. Also ensure, you take a preventive health check at least once a year.