Diwali 2022 - How to protect yourself from Diwali pollution and keep your lungs healthy

After covid and a long lockdown, a lot of excitement is likely to be seen in people celebrating Diwali this year, without any restrictions. They are excited to celebrate Diwali on a large scale with family and friends, but there is one more thing that comes with Diwali every year: Diwali pollution. Though every year the government poses many guidelines to all states but not many are followed properly, and as a result, people end up suffering from many health issues owing to firecrackers pollution on Diwali. A cloud of thick smoke that comes with crackers can be seen for a long time post Diwali and it can have adverse effects on lung health. 

How much do fireworks and firecrackers contribute to air pollution during Diwali?

The bursting of firecrackers during Diwali is not only the reason for Diwali pollution that goes on to cause lung infection in a number of people, but it worsens the air quality. It can have many adverse effects on health, especially for people having lung diseases and existing lung conditions. There are many reasons, like Diwali crackers, crop burning and exhaust emissions of vehicles, and weather patterns that contribute to air pollution during Diwali. Experts say the air quality in many parts of India is seen to consistently deteriorate ahead of Diwali. This is why the government bans and imposes fines on the use of crackers to manage the harmful effects of firecrackers during Diwali. It is the reason why it is important to take appropriate steps to keep air pollution under control, especially during Diwali. Firecrackers have many chemicals in them that can cause burns or respiratory attacks and also contribute to causing many infectious diseases and inflammations. Any kind of pre-existing disease in people can be worsened owing to the chemicals in crackers and can also cause a new disease. Some chemicals present in crackers used during Diwali are:

• Copper- it irritates the respiratory tract.
• Cadmium - it is responsible for vomiting and fume fever
• Lead - it directly affects the nervous system
• Magnesium- it is the leading cause of fume fever caused by inhaling magnesium fumes.
• Sodium - it is a highly reactive element and can cause burns or wounds if exposed to air.

What are the effects of air pollution on health?

 Controlling air pollution during Diwali is very important for health. Not only outdoor air pollution but indoor air pollution must also be checked and controlled to manage the situation. Some health effects of indoor and outdoor air pollution are:

Indoor air pollution

Indoor air pollution is more dangerous and is not good for lungs, and everybody must keep this in mind; the only way to reduce it is to use an air purifier during Diwali so that we can save ourselves from its ill effects:

• Indoor air pollution can lead to asbestos growth, a severe air pollutant that can cause health problems such as lung cancer, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. It can also be a cause of various other types of cancer.
• Indoor air pollution also causes animal dander, dust miles, and many other bacterias that are the primary cause of asthma symptoms, throat irritation, etc.
• Indoor air pollution also contributes to lead fumes pollution, which is severe and life-threatening and causes irritation in the eyes, throat, nose, and many other allergic reactions.
• Many homes have one common air pollution source, tobacco smoke, which leads to respiratory irritation, pneumonia, heart disease, lung cancer, and bronchitis. 

Outdoor air pollution

The Diwali season always deteriorates the outdoor air quality, which has adverse effects on the health and well-being of everyone exposed to it. This outdoor air pollution contributes to many health issues;

• It increases the risk of lung cancer, heart stroke, and acute respiratory disease.
• It causes fog mixed with air pollutants, also known as smog, which results in decreased lung function and causes respiratory inflammation.
• During Diwali, the most common problems everyone faces are coughing and wheezing. 
• Higher levels of pollutants in the air damage the immune system, endocrine, and reproductive system.

How can I protect myself from pollution?

Diwali is the most exciting festival of lights, celebrations, and enjoyment but one side effect is the dangerous increase in air pollution levels. These levels cause many ill effects on health, especially for people with breathing problems. People suffering from asthmatic problems must take ways to strengthen their lungs so that they can manage their health effectively. Just shutting yourself indoors will also not work as indoor air quality also worsen during Diwali. There are many harmful effects of firecrackers during Diwali, as discussed above, and it is essential for us to protect ourselves from pollution to protect our lung health. We can do many things to keep ourselves safe from pollution during Diwali:

• Try to avoid firecrackers as it causes maximum pollution during Diwali; they release many harmful toxins that make people unbreathable and can cause lung infection. Intake of these toxins can lead to dizziness, vomiting, nausea, and coughing. So avoiding firecrackers is the best thing you can do, which is good for your lungs.
• Nowadays, there are green crackers available in the market as it is the best way to avoid Diwali pollution. These crackers reduce particulate matter in the air and harmful gasses in the air by 30 to 40 percent.
• If you want to watch the firecrackers, then watch from a distance as it can affect your lungs. 
• Avoid physical activities during Diwali as it can lead to lung infections when inhaling them deeply. 
• Use air purifiers at home to work as an air cleanser and to inhale the purified form.
• You can use eco-friendly diyas that are available in the market as excessive lights can also contribute to pollution in the environment. Use terracotta lamps to light up your homes in Diwali 2022.

How to improve lung health if having a lung condition?

If you have any kind of lung infection or else any other respiratory issue, then fireworks during Diwali can make it worsen. Diwali pollution can trigger symptoms and can irritate your lungs. We usually ignore lung health, and when we experience breathing problems, we start caring for them. Like other organs, lungs also require care and attention to function well. Everybody just tries to follow some factors to have stronger lungs. Since regular daily exercises do not help you use your lungs to full capacity, you are required to challenge the lungs with some more intense activities. People with lung conditions must follow ways to strengthen your lungs so that you can stay healthy during Diwali. Below are some lite techniques that you can do to improve lung health and stay healthy during Diwali:

Diaphragmatic breathing

 Among many ways to improve lung health, one you can do is to follow simple breathing techniques as per experts. People can do these Techniques with lung infections or any other lung-related conditions like asthma, emphysema, and chronic bronchitis. People who are healthy can also follow these techniques as they will benefit them a lot. The diaphragmatic breathing technique uses the diaphragm muscle that separates the organ in the abdomen from the lungs. 

Simple breathing technique 

It is another way to get closer to reaching full capacity, and it is best to have stronger lungs. The time you start inhaling slowly, you expand your belly and lower your diaphragm. Then you allow your ribs to grow and make them float open like wings. After all this, you finally allow the upper chest to expand and then exhale by letting the chest fall and ribs contract again.

Counting breaths

If you want that there is an increment in your lung capacity and stay healthy from Diwali pollution, you must try out this technique. Start counting your breaths and know how long a natural breath takes. If it takes to count five to inhale, it should also count five to exhale. Try to keep these lengths equal and try to add a count to each until you can extend the length of time that is required to fill and empty the lungs. It is the best you can do for your lung health. 

Staying hydrated 

It is also vital for lung health as getting enough water is essential for the lungs and the rest of the body. Taking fluids throughout the day assit you to keep mucosal linings in the lungs, and this will lead to better lung functions. Also, try to laugh loud, as it is one of the best ways to strengthen your lungs. It also helps clear your lungs naturally by forcing enough air out and entering the fresh air into areas of the lungs.

Quit smoking

Smoking is poison for the lungs, and to avoid lung infections, you must quit smoking as it contributes to COPD and lung cancer. Smoking is the primary cause of chronic inflammation in the lungs which can make breathing difficult and can destroy lung tissues. Exercising regularly can help you to strengthen your lungs and help you to boost your immune system. 

Eat the right foods for the lungs

There are many foods that are good for the lungs and contain nutrients that help to protect lung health. Consuming things good for lungs can help you to protect them from Diwali pollution, and the diet will also boost your immune system . a healthy and well-balanced diet goes a long way to keep your lungs strong. below is the list of good foods for the lungs and bad foods for the lungs that you must keep in mind:

Foods good for lungs

1. Consume high-fiber foods like whole-wheat spaghetti, baked beans, chia seeds, quinoa, pears, and broccoli.
2. You can have coffee which proves to be healthier for the lungs as it is anti-inflammatory.
3.  Try to include brown rice, whole-wheat bread, whole-wheat pasta, oats, quinoa, and barley, as they are best for lung health.
4. Red & blue fruits including blueberries and strawberries as they are rich in flavonoids and anthocyanin and help to have stronger lungs.
5. You must consume leafy green veggies in your daily diet to strengthen your lungs, fill your plate with spinach along with other leafy greens, drink milk, and eat cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products; it prevents lung cancer.
6.  Eating tomatoes and tomato products, including tomato juice, can improve airway inflammation and is best for those who have lung conditions like asthma.

Foods that must be avoided 

1. Processed or cured, meats can worsen lung function, and it is best to avoid them. 
2. Heavy drinking is harmful to your liver and your lungs; thus, avoiding it will be good for the lungs. Sulfites present in alcohol can worsen asthma symptoms and must be avoided by people with lung conditions.
3. Avoid soft drinks to take care of the lungs, as these are poisonous for people with respiratory conditions. 
4. consuming salt in excess can have adverse effects on your lungs, and people can be prone to long-term bronchitis.

FAQs 

Does Diwali cause air pollution?

Yes, Diwali causes severe air pollution and can worsen lung conditions as firecrackers make air harmful to breathe. 

Why do some people experience difficulty in breathing during Diwali?

 Firecracker pollution Diwali leads to a lot of pollution and causes problems for those suffering from asthma, chronic pulmonary disorders, and many other respiratory issues.

How can we reduce Diwali pollution?

Diwali pollution can be reduced by using green crackers as they are made using less harmful materials and additives. It helps in reducing pollution by suppressing dust.

What is the healthiest thing that is good for the lungs?

Consuming a fully packed and rich diet full of nutritious foods and beverages can support your lungs, heal and protect them long-term.

How to cleanse your lungs naturally?

You can clean your lungs naturally through steam therapy. It will help you to control coughing and drain mucus from the lungs.

Conclusion 

Never take your lungs for granted, as they are essential for life. It is necessary to prioritize your lung health to stay away from lung infections. Following ways to take care of your lungs will help you to manage your health during Diwali as you know well about the harmful effects of firecrackers during Diwali on the lungs, especially for people having lung conditions. If you have any kind of lung issue, then keep an inhaler with you as it will help you instantly during Diwali. Eat plenty of food and veggies and also stay hydrated to protect yourself from Diwali pollution. People must know about the symptoms of lung conditions during Diwali l to stay well, as they can be prone to coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, and asthma attacks. Keeping yourself updated can help you to deal with the condition smartly.