PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
Doctors in Dehradun have advised individuals to take precautions to prevent respiratory issues which may increase due to the unhealthy Air Quality Index (AQI) levels. It is noteworthy that in recent days, Dehradun’s AQI levels have reached 164, 201, 172 and 173 and other similar readings, considered moderate to unhealthy. Given this, doctors have highlighted that the affected AQI can lead to respiratory problems, including breathing difficulties and other related issues.
The principal medical superintendent at the Deen Dayal Upadhyay District Hospital, Dr Manu Jain informed that there has been no increase in cases related to affected air quality index (AQI) levels in the hospital’s outpatient department. In the same breath, he, however, said that a moderate to unhealthy AQI has been observed in recent days and this might lead to a surge in respiratory issues. “Poor air quality can exacerbate breathing difficulties, increase the risk of heart attacks and contribute to other health problems. Vulnerable sections, particularly the elderly and children, are more susceptible to infections as a result,” he warned.
To mitigate these risks, Jain advised individuals, especially those in the aforementioned age groups, to take precautions such as limiting unnecessary outings, wearing masks and staying properly hydrated.
“During the winter months, the AQI levels get affected because pollution in the atmosphere is not cleared by rain. With a moderate to unhealthy AQI, an increase in respiratory issues used to be observed among children. During this time, many children experienced difficulty breathing, asthma and other related problems,” said a paediatrician at Shri Mahant Indiresh Hospital, Dr Vishal Kaushik.
He said that he usually encounters these cases during this season. To help prevent such issues in children, parents are advised to ensure their children wear masks, use air purifiers at home, limit indoor activities and encourage increased fluid intake, he added.
Speaking of the same matter, a senior physician at Combined Medical Institute (CMI) Hospital, Dr Anshika Jain said that due to the deteriorating air quality index (AQI) in Dehradun, she has been currently observing a rise in respiratory issues in OPD. Alongside this, cases of allergies have also increased, she said.
