Delhi's Air Crisis: More Than Just a Breath of Fresh Air Needed

Amid deteriorating air quality in Delhi, health experts highlight its impacts beyond physical health, affecting mood and mental wellbeing. Doctors recommend minimizing outdoor activities, using masks and air purifiers, and maintaining a healthy diet to combat pollutants. Mental and cognitive health are also impacted, requiring a broader approach to environmental health.

With air quality plummeting to severe levels, Delhi faces a dual health crisis affecting both physical and cognitive well-being. According to healthcare professionals, the effects of pollution extend beyond respiratory issues, impacting emotional resilience and mood stability.

Dr Arunesh Kumar from Paras Health advises limiting outdoor exposure, especially during periods of poor air quality. He suggests wearing N95 masks and utilizing HEPA air purifiers indoors to mitigate exposure to harmful particles. Furthermore, indoor plants, hydration, and saline nasal sprays are recommended for natural air quality improvement and nasal relief.

Dr Jyoti Kapoor emphasizes the broader impacts of pollutants like PM2.5 on mental health, contributing to anxiety, stress, and cognitive dysfunction. Aman Puri of Steadfast Nutrition advocates for a Mediterranean diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants to strengthen respiratory health. Meanwhile, Dr Vivek Srivastava calls for dietary recommendations to support at-risk individuals, noting the protective role of vitamins against pollution-related diseases.

(With inputs from agencies.)