How can Asthma patients protect themselves during high AQI days?

Taking extra precautions is crucial for the well-being of asthma patients, who face particular challenges on days with significant air pollution. Monitoring air quality levels is the first step. Because air quality can fluctuate greatly during the day, it is important to regularly check local AQI measurements to keep informed. Asthma sufferers should limit their outside activities and refrain from intense exertion on days with high AQI, particularly when readings above 200. AQI levels over 300 indicate an emergency situation, thus everyone should stay indoors as much as possible. AQI values over 400 indicate an emergency situation.

According to Dr. Vivek Nangia, Vice Chairman & Head - Pulmonology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, “The timing of outdoor activities is also crucial. Mornings are dangerous times to be outside because of the greater amounts of pollution caused by smog. When pollution is at its highest, people with asthma should avoid going for morning walks or exercising outside. Alternatively, people can think about exercising indoors or going outside only later in the day when the sun has cleared the air.”

As winter approaches, so does the rise in air pollution. Air quality index (AQI) levels often increase in the colder months, posing a serious risk. The AQI measures air pollution on a scale from 0 to 500, with higher values indicating worse pollution levels. For people with asthma, air quality becomes particularly dangerous when the AQI exceeds 100, as this can trigger respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and chest tightness. Here’s how to stay safe and healthy during high AQI days.

1. Avoid outdoor exercise at peak pollution times

According to Dr. Hindol Dasgupta, Consultant, Pulmonology, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, Kolkata, “Pollution is usually highest early in the morning and at dusk. Try to avoid outdoor exercise during these times. Instead, opt for indoor workouts or schedule outdoor activities in the late morning or afternoon when pollution levels are generally lower.”



2. Wear a mask outdoors
If you must be outside during peak pollution hours, wearing a mask can provide some protection. An N95 mask is best for severe pollution days as it filters out fine particulate matter, reducing pollutant exposure. When stepping outside is inevitable, masks like N95 or N99 respirators are useful because they are made to efficiently filter out airborne pollutants. By drastically lowering the quantity of particulate matter inhaled, this easy precaution can save the lungs from discomfort.

3. Follow doctor’s instructions on medication
It’s essential to stay consistent with your asthma medications. Take your inhalers as prescribed, and if you have nasal allergies, use your nasal spray daily to keep symptoms at bay and avoid attacks.

4. Minimize allergen exposure
Many asthmatics have cold allergies. Avoid cold food and drinks, and limit close contact with people who are sneezing or coughing to reduce your risk of respiratory infections.

5. Steer clear of smoky and dusty environments

Dust, smoke, and other airborne irritants can aggravate asthma symptoms and worsen respiratory issues. Avoid areas where smoke, dust, or strong odors are present, such as construction sites, heavily trafficked areas, and indoor environments with poor ventilation.

6. Keep indoor air clean
Maintain a clean indoor environment. Consider using an air purifier, though data on their effectiveness for asthma is still inconclusive. Patients with asthma should utilise air purifiers to maintain clean indoor air, particularly on days with high AQI. On days when the air quality improves, it is also advantageous to introduce fresh air into living areas. A healthier breathing environment can also be achieved by lowering indoor pollution sources like tobacco smoke and harsh cleaning products.

7. Regular doctor visits
Lastly, visit your doctor regularly for routine check-ups to ensure your asthma management plan is updated for the season.

By following these tips, asthmatic patients can better protect themselves against poor air quality and keep symptoms under control. Lastly, maintaining respiratory health is supported by a balanced diet and adequate hydration. A diet high in antioxidants, which are found in fruits and vegetables, helps the body fight against oxidative stress brought on by pollution, while drinking plenty of water aids in the removal of pollutants and promotes the health of the skin and lungs.


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