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In the wake of worsening air quality levels, doctors in Delhi have reported a 50% surge in cases of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other chest-related problems. As of Thursday morning, Delhi’s overall air quality remained categorized as “poor,” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 256, according to SAFAR-India.
The Central Pollution Control Board’s daily bulletin stated that Delhi’s AQI on October 25 at 4 p.m. was 243. Neighboring areas like Noida and Ghaziabad also registered in the “poor” category, with AQIs of 212 and 203 respectively. Gurgaon, however, had a somewhat better AQI of 190, falling into the “moderate” category.
Dr. Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology at C.K. Birla Hospital in Gurugram, mentioned, “Amidst the rising levels of pollution in Delhi-NCR, we are witnessing a notable increase in patients with COPD and chest problems coming to us in our OPD these days. We are seeing roughly 30 to 35 patients each day in our OPD, from 7-10 patients a day earlier — marking almost a 50 per cent increase.”
Dr. Vivek Nangia, Principal Director & Head Pulmonology at Max Hospital, Saket, also noted a “dramatic increase” in the number of patients visiting the OPD and the emergency room.
“The majority of patients that we treat nowadays present with cough, cold, sore throat, feeling of a foreign body in the throat, watering eyes, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath. And in the majority of cases, we must administer medications such as nasal decongestants and anti-allergy medications,” he said.
While Delhi’s air quality is perennially affected by stubble burning, this year has seen a notable decrease in such incidents, with only 1,794 farm fires in Haryana and 714 in Punjab recorded till October 23. Additionally, rising temperatures in Delhi and a decrease in wind speed may lead to an escalation in pollution, as stated by Delhi Environment Minister Gopal Rai.
Dr. Grover emphasized that patients who already had respiratory issues are now being diagnosed with pneumonia and are requiring hospitalization. Furthermore, individuals are also developing new upper respiratory issues, and if not treated promptly, they can progress to lower respiratory problems.
Dr. Arun Chowdary Kotaru, Consultant in Respiratory & Sleep Medicine at Artemis Hospital, Gurugram, highlighted the profound impact of air pollution on the lungs and heart. He also mentioned that one member of almost every family is suffering from symptoms like cough, sore throat, and fever. He advised supportive therapy, a balanced diet, and physical activity for all patients.
The health experts recommended quitting smoking, avoiding secondhand smoke, and minimizing exposure to dust and pollution. Additionally, they advised individuals above 60 years of age or below 15 years to consider taking flu and pneumonia vaccines.
