Pulmonologist explains how firecrackers affect your lungs, tips to protect yourself during festive season

From AQI checks to masks and air purifiers — here’s how to protect your lungs from firecracker smoke this festive season. (Image: Pexels)

The festive season is full of joy, cheer and moments spent with loved ones, but along with the merriment comes a silent health challenge – plummeting air quality. Widespread use of firecrackers during festivals such as Diwali has emerged as a major factor explaining spikes in air pollution levels. The smoke and gases emitted during fireworks events also contain toxicants like particulate matter (PM2. 5 and PM10); sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide.

These are pollutants that hang in the air, particularly in cities where air is already heavily soiled and are highly dangerous to people’s respiratory health.

Its effects aren't always felt right away, but can exacerbate existing lung conditions. Those with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and allergies are at a greater risk of flare-ups, breathlessness and infections during this time. Throat irritation, coughing and difficulty breathing can be bad for all people in poor air.

Dr Praveen Kumar Pandey - Senior Director, Pulmonology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj told Moneycontrol that COVID-19 pandemic still continues to around the world and large number of individuals are developing severe illness owing to unvaccinated micro-nations and their immune-compromised population.

Also Read: H3N2 flu cases surge in Delhi-NCR: Why children and older adults face the highest risk

“Following AQI index, not going out during peak pollution hours, wearing protective masks and taking measures to have good indoor air quality can help protect lungs and make this festive season a safer one,” he said.

• 0-50 (Good): Air is clean and safe.
• 51-100 (Moderate): Air is acceptable but may affect very sensitive people.
• 101-200 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): People with lung diseases, children, and elderly should limit outdoor activities.
• 201-300 (Unhealthy): Everyone may experience health effects; reduce outdoor exposure.
• 301+ (Very Unhealthy to Hazardous): Serious health warnings; avoid outdoor activities completely.

Certain populations have a higher risk of being negatively affected by air pollution. Children and the elderly are more vulnerable to experiencing negative effects from air pollution. People with underlying respiratory conditions have increased risk. For example, children with asthma may experience increased symptoms such as cough, wheezing, and shortness of breath during high air pollution. Older adults with COPD may find it more difficult to cope with their symptoms during these times as well.

Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of respiratory health issues associated with air pollution from firecrackers, follow these important precautions:

• Limiting exposure to high pollution hours when firecrackers are used can help eliminate mama, and being inside can help protect your lungs.
• Use air purifiers that utilize HEPA filters to reduce pollution inside without the outdoor risk.
• Keeping track of local air quality metrics will help to develop a plan for avoiding high pollution hours for activities.
• Ensuring you are keeping yourself hydrated can help protect your lungs consulting with your physicians would be prudent when making decisions about outdoor activities and pollution.

Also Read: Pulmonologist shares easy remedies to boost breathing, immunity, and respiratory function

Taking precautions can help maintain the joy of festivals while inhaling polluted air.

FAQs on Tips to Maintain Lung Health During Festivals

1. How can I protect my lungs during festivals with high pollution?
Follow the AQI index, avoid peak pollution hours, wear protective masks, and use air purifiers indoors.

2. Who is at higher risk during high pollution levels?
Children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD are more vulnerable.

3. What are the symptoms of exposure to polluted air?
Throat irritation, coughing, breathlessness, and exacerbation of existing lung conditions.

4. How can I monitor air quality during festivals?
Check AQI daily on weather apps and websites to take necessary precautions.

5. Are there any specific precautions to take indoors?
Use air purifiers with HEPA filters, stay hydrated, and consult your physician for advice.

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.