Diwali firecracker smoke and air pollution: Why heart and lung patients face risk, experts warn

Rising air pollution during Diwali, when combined with smoke from firecrackers and increased festive activity, can stress the heart. This Diwali, make sure to take these vital steps and protect your heart. The festive season involves celebrations, family gatherings, outdoor activities, and even late-night festivities. "However, the rise in air pollution, mainly during Diwali, when firecrackers release smoke, fine particulate matter, and harmful gases into the atmosphere, can give a tough time to your heart. So, the constant exposure to polluted air can lead to inflammation, increase blood pressure, affect blood vessels, and make the heart work harder. Moreover, even those with coronary artery disease, heart failure, irregular heartbeat, or a history of heart attack will also have to be careful during Diwali.  Hence, understand that factors such as pollution, lack of sleep, stress, heavy festive meals, and irregular medication can place a huge burden on the heart,” says Dr Punya Pratap Kujur, Consultant Cardiologist, Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai.

Heart patients should remain indoors

Dr Punya further added, “People with heart disease should take these precautions: It is necessary to avoid exposure to firecracker smoke. Heart patients should remain indoors when the pollution levels are high during firecracker celebrations. It is necessary to avoid standing near areas where firecrackers are being burst. Make sure to check the local Air Quality Index (AQI) and then only step out of the house. So, see to it that you  exercise indoors during Diwali and stay away from pollution. Take medication as advised by the doctor, and  do not discontinue or even  change medication without the doctor's knowledge. Moreover, pay attention to the diet. Try to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and pulses in the diet. Avoid  fried snacks, sweets and foods high in salt and unhealthy fats. Excessive salt intake can raise the blood pressure in people with heart failure. Report warning signs such as chest pain and discomfort, breathlessness, unusual sweating, dizziness, palpitations, or sudden fatigue to the doctor. If you are required to step out of the house then wear a well-fitted N95 mask to reduce exposure to particulate pollution. A little care and planning can help people with heart disease enjoy the festive season safely and comfortably. This Diwali, stay alert and focus on heart health.”

Particulate matter can enter the bloodstream

Air pollution during the festive season may not only impact the lungs but even the cardiovascular system. Fine particulate matter gets deposited in the lungs, causing irritation and inflammation. This further leads to long term changes, reducing lung capacity and increasing the risk of lung fibrosis and COPD. Furthermore, this particulate matter can enter the bloodstream, and cause  inflammation and increase stress on the heart. People with coronary artery disease, heart failure or high blood pressure should stay vigilant. Make sure to stay safe at home, be away from sick people, and avoid firecracker smoke. Hence, everyone should make sure to pay attention to the lungs as well as the heart,” said Dr Tanay Sinha, Consultant Pulmonologist, Medicover Hospitals, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai.

(This article is meant for informational purposes only and must not be considered a substitute for advice provided by qualified medical professionals. Always seek the advice of your doctor for any questions about medical conditions.)