Elderly, children at most risk, say experts

NEW DELHI: Elderly people and children are the most at risk due to the severe pollution, doctors in the national Capital have said.

Residents have been advised not to venture outside, to escape the adverse effects of pollution, and use of pollution mask and air purifiers.

"Due to the prevalent pollution levels, we should take good care of our elderly people especially. They should not exercise or walk outside. Early morning exposure to smog should be avoided for kids. They should stay warm avoid cold beverage and take hot tea or coffee," said Dr Anand Jaiswal Director, Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Medanta Hospital.

Cardiologist Dr R R Kasliwal said that severe pollution levels cause dysfunction in the innermost layer of the heart, leading to plague formation and thickening of the arteries.

Doctors and experts suggested that everyone should use masks to avoid inhalation of pollutants and, if affordable, must use of air purifiers.

"Some air purifiers clean air in 12 minutes and remove the minutest of the air pollutants which cause respiratory illness and other diseases," said Arvind Chabra, country head, Blueair India. He added that people staying at home can get affected by pollution, which is why air purifiers are needed.

Experts observed that high levels of particulate matter 2.5 have will have serious health implications, such as asthma, bronchitis, chronic respiratory symptoms including, shortness of breath and painful breathing.