Finance
In the recent year, there has been a significant increase in the number of cases of lung disease due to increased air pollution. The majority of individuals have been having respiratory problems, bronchitis, asthma, and even cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which has become frequent in many polluted places.
Speaking about managing pollution at the individual level, Dr Randeep Guleria, former AIIMS Director, told The Lallantop’s Sarwat that we should reduce pollution as much as we can at the person level.
“Start with carpooling or opt for cycling whenever possible. In winter, an electric heater is a better option than burning wood. People with a higher risk of respiratory issues should wear masks whenever they step out of the house. Avoid areas that have a poor or very poor AQI,” said Dr Guleria.
The pulmonologist further suggested that indoor pollution like dust can cause lung issues as well. “Air purifiers can help to a great extent,” he added.
The sustainable solution to this, however, is to remove pollution from its source, which is mostly vehicular exhaust.
Importance of using inhalers
Dr Guleria also spoke about people avoiding inhalers due to several myths.
“There are a few myths about inhalers. People get conscious when using an inhaler due to social anxiety. Some people also avoid it because they think they will get addicted to it. But inhalers are very safe,” said Dr Guleria, adding that by using an inhaler the medicine goes straight to the lungs.
“If you consume tablets, it goes to the stomach, then to the blood, then finally to the lungs. This can also cause allergies as well. But with inhalers, the onset of action is immediate. With tablets, the onset of action could take at least an hour. Don’t think of it as the last resort. In fact, make it your first resort,” stressed Dr Guleria.
