Health risks of air pollution: A scratchy, burning or rough sensation is often the first alarm bell. Pollution dries the throat, making swallowing or speaking uncomfortable, especially after long stretches outdoors (Image: Pexels)
If you often feel a mild scratch at the back of the throat, don’t ignore the discomfort. Because if you live in a polluted city, doctors warn that these early signs reveal a lot about your health.
Poor air quality has a direct and immediate impact on the throat because it’s the first point of contact for polluted air, Dr Abhijit Ahuja, Pulmonologist, Saifee Hospital, Mumbai, tells Moneycontrol. “Pollutants like PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide can inflame the throat lining and lower immunity, making frequent infections more likely,” he adds.
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You notice the symptoms sooner if you are out on the road or stuck in traffic for long daily. “The throat’s protective mucosal layer dries out when exposed to smoke, chemical particles and exhaust fumes. This makes the tissues more reactive and far more vulnerable to infection,” warns Dr Ahuja.
Also read | Delhi-NCR air pollution: 68 pc sought medical help, 85 pc face rising costs, says survey
Don't ignore the early symptoms, suggests the expert. “The key is to recognise symptoms early so they don’t turn into bigger respiratory issues,” he says
Symptoms linked to poor air quality
Dr Ahuja shares 5 symptoms linked to
poor air quality:
Constant throat irritation
A scratchy, burning or rough sensation is often the first alarm bell. Pollution dries the throat, making swallowing or speaking uncomfortable, especially after long stretches outdoors.
Dry cough or repeated throat clearing
Your body attempts to reject inhaled particles by triggering a
dry cough. Those exposed to traffic fumes or construction dust often notice the urge to clear their throat repeatedly.
Also read | Paediatrician says Delhi-NCR’s severe AQI is affecting babies before they are born; Here’s what doctors want parents to know
Hoarse or strained voice
Pollutants irritate the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or vocal fatigue, even in people who speak very little during the day.
Excess mucus or congestion
Some people produce more mucus as a defence mechanism. This causes congestion, heaviness or that unpleasant drip sensation from nose to throat.
Frequent sore throats or infections
When pollution weakens local immunity, viral or bacterial infections appear more easily. Pain on swallowing, swollen glands or a persistent lump-like sensation may follow.
When to consult a doctor
While many mild symptoms improve with hydration and reduced exposure, Dr Ahuja stresses that certain situations require prompt medical care. “If symptoms last more than a few days or start to interfere with breathing or swallowing, it’s important to seek help immediately.”
Seek medical attention if:
- Symptoms persist beyond 3–5 days
- Breathing or swallowing becomes difficult
- High fever develops or throat pain worsens
- Symptoms recur frequently in short periods
- You belong to a high-risk group such as children, older adults, pregnant women, asthmatics or those with weakened immunity
Early awareness and long-term health
With pollution becoming a recurring reality, paying attention to throat symptoms is crucial. Timely intervention and preventive measures, from masks to air purifiers to limiting exposure, can prevent minor irritation from turning into serious respiratory illness. As Dr Ahuja reminds us, “Listening to your throat early can protect your lungs in the long run.”
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
