On November 14, the AQI level in Delhi at 8 am was 428, as per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). As the air quality turned severe in the national capital along with other parts of NCR, doctors issued advisories for residents to stay safe. Dr Pratibha Dogra - Senior Consultant-Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, Marengo Asia Hospitals Gurugram, shares 10 tips that people combating severe pollution need to follow.
As residents of NCR struggle with health issues amid rising pollution levels, Dr Pratibha Dogra, Senior Consultant - Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram, shares tips on how to stay safe. Read on.
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You can wear an N95 or N99-certified mask. Wear it on polluted days to filter harmful particles and pollutants, thus lowering exposure to dangerous air.
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Invest in a convenient air purifier for maintaining fresh air purity, especially in the room. This lowers all the pollutants indoors such as dust, pollen, and smoke, making it healthier to breathe.
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Peak pollution times are seen in the early mornings and evenings. Try as much as possible to reduce exposure by avoiding outdoor activities at these moments or cutting down the hours spent outdoors.
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You can do an indoor workout instead of jogging or cycling in public. Air pollution can irritate the lungs as well, so opt for a home workout or some indoor exercises if you have access to one. You can also join an indoor workout program at a gym.
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Some plants will clean up and freshen indoor air such as aloe vera, spider plants, and spathiphyllum. It absorbs toxins and exhales oxygen fresh into the air.
Have foods rich in oxidants, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Oxidants prevent oxidative stress by pollution and strengthen one's immunity.
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Stay hydrated to detoxify your body. Hydration also maintains healthy respiration, which continuously fights the impact of pollutants.
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When you feel that the day is polluted, then keep your windows and doors closed to prevent outside air from entering your home. This will be more effective in keeping the inside air clean.
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Smoking-related pollution burdens your lungs which are already stressed due to the outside pollution. Make sure you avoid smoking and places where smoking would have an effect in secondhand smoking, thereby protecting your respiratory health.
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Monitor the air quality by downloading apps and checking websites and organise your activities appropriately. You can choose to stay indoors a day if the pollutants are very high or wear some form of protective covering while stepping outdoors.
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