A simple walk in a polluted environment can lead to breathing problems.
To improve the health of the lungs and its capacity, it is quite important to keep doing deep breathing exercises.
Pollution has become a part of our daily life. Unfortunately, there is no escape from this, especially for residents in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. As the temperature dropped, Delhi-NCR got blanketed with smog and fog, where pollutants and toxins are suspended in the air mixed with water vapour. The Air Quality Index (AQI) took a major hit due to various reasons in the last few weeks in the city, which will have an immense effect on health, especially heart. Breathing problems, respiratory disorders and itchy eyes are some of the common effects of air pollution. The presence of nitroxide and other toxic gases in the air can also affect the functioning of the heart. When these gases mix with the blood, it causes oxidative stress in the arteries, which may lead to heart attack or other cardio-vascular diseases.
How exactly does pollution cause heart-related problems?
A simple walk in a polluted environment can lead to breathing problems. Inhaling these pollutants can irritate the air passage and cause breathing problems. The pollutants move from the lungs to the bloodstream and go to other parts of the body. Children and elderly people with weakened immune systems are at a greater risk. These pollutants affect the lining of the blood vessels and lead to inflammation and hardening of arteries. It can also increase blood pressure and pose a risk of blood clotting. This can also lead to arrhythmia — a condition which causes irregular heartbeats. This can become life-threatening.
So, let’s take a look at some tips that can help you protect your heart from air pollution.
Avoid walking in the morning
Kids and adults should avoid walking in the morning during this time. If you must go out at all, cover your face with a mask.
Practise deep breathing exercises
To improve the health of the lungs and its capacity, it is quite important to keep doing deep breathing exercises. It will improve lung health and the respiratory system.
Have immunity-boosting foods
Foods rich in Vitamin C, iron, calcium and minerals help boost the immunity system and fight against pollutants.
Minimise your exposure
Avoid roads near factories where AQI is high. Before stepping out, always check the AQI of a region and plan your day accordingly.
Wear a mask
Wear a mask to protect yourself from air pollutants, if you have to go out at all — whether it is to step out for shopping, office or a day out.
Use air purifiers at home
At home, reduce toxins by switching on the air purifier at home. The toxins present in the indoor air will be reduced and will let you breathe easier.