The sudden and sharp rise in air pollution levels has once again placed immense pressure on an already stretched healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics across the city witnessing a noticeable surge in patients reporting pollution-related ailments. Doctors from both civic-run hospitals and private healthcare facilities say outpatient departments are recording a steady increase in cases of breathlessness, persistent coughing, wheezing, and exacerbation of pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Medical professionals point out that the impact of poor air quality is no longer limited to the lungs alone. A growing number of patients are complaining of burning sensations and redness in the eyes, frequent headaches, dizziness, and general discomfort, all of which are being linked to prolonged exposure to polluted air.
Physicians warn that vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens, and those with underlying heart or lung conditions, are particularly at risk during such periods of elevated pollution. Health experts have cautioned that continued exposure without adequate preventive measures could lead to long-term health complications, further burdening the healthcare infrastructure.
Patients speak
Gauri Oak, Malad resident
‘I had stopped using my asthma inhaler one-and-a-half years ago, as I was getting better with the help of ayurvedic medication and regular breathing exercises. For the past 15 days, I have been forced to use the inhaler at least thrice a day. It has become difficult to breathe. I am a working woman and spend three hours travelling daily’
Shrishti Jog, Borivli resident
‘I work the afternoon shift, and the increased pollution and heat have forced me to use glasses as my eyes hurt a lot. When I visited my ophthalmologist, she said I was suffering from allergies due to dust particles’
MEDICOS offer advice
Dr Swapnil Mehta, Senior consultant, pulmonology, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital
‘There has been a 20 per cent rise in the number of patients coming with air pollution-related problems. Air pollution in urban India is an unavoidable reality, but daily lung protection is possible. Some simple habits-a well-fitted mask during peak hours of traffic flow, avoiding outdoor exercise when AQI is poor, and, indoors, air purifiers-can help reduce harmful particle intake. Also, nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing, steam inhalation after days of heavy exposure, staying hydrated, and antioxidant foods like fruits, green vegetables, turmeric, and Omega-3 fats really help the lungs battle inflammation caused by pollution. Long-term exposure to pollutants silently increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke; thus, protection must also start with clean indoor air, zero smoke exposure, and early medical evaluation of any persistent cough or breathlessness’
Dr Huzefa Dhansura, Eye surgeon, Saifee Hospital
‘From one patient in three days, we are now seeing three to four daily. Pollution disturbs the protective layer of the eye. Most patients complain of burning sensation, redness and itching. We are also seeing more cases of dry eye syndrome. In some cases, the damage due to dust and pollution is so intense that it damages the cornea, leading to eye ulcers. Use zero-power spectacles, irritation-resistant drops on doctor’s prescription, wash your eyes frequently, do not rub your eyes even if you feel irritation, and use an air purifier at home’
