How Is Hyderabad a Real Culprit for Asthma?
Hyderabad is quickly becoming a culprit for asthma and other respiratory issues due to toxic air quality, growing vehicle population, urbanization, and environmental factors.
Air Pollution Is Getting Worse
Every day, there is a new construction project happening in Hyderabad. It creates a lot of dirt, dust, and even air pollution. These particles can cause inflammation. The situation can make your asthma even worse, especially when your lungs are very sensitive.
Some areas like HiTech City, Gachibowli, Narsingi, and Kokapet are highly polluted. These have high PM2.5 levels due to regular construction.
If you are in these areas and the AQI is above 100, avoid going outside. Wear an N95 mask outside on bad air quality days.
Monsoon Humidity Is Causing Respiratory Issues
From June to September, humidity can be more than 85%. Due to which mould and fungus grow, particularly in homes with poor ventilation.
Mould spores can strongly affect people with asthma. Most people notice their asthma gets worse during or just after the monsoon, even if it was stable before.
If indoor humidity goes above 60%, you need to install a dehumidifier. Regularly check your walls, ceilings, and even bathroom tiles for mould growth. If possible, use an air purifier with a HEPA filter in your bedroom.
Home Dust Mites Can Cause Allergies
Dust mites can grow easily during warm and humid weather. It even stays there all year round. You can usually spot them on your sofas, pillows, mattresses, and carpets.
Their waste particles can strongly trigger asthma and allergies. People with dust mite allergy usually wake up with a blocked nose and feel worse after making the bed or vacuuming.
Use dust-proof covers for the pillows and mattresses. Make sure to wash bedsheets weekly in hot water (above 60°C). If possible, remove heavy curtains and carpets. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter when cleaning.
Vehicle and Traffic Pollution
Heavy traffic in Hyderabad leads to air pollution, especially in busy areas. Pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and ozone can irritate the airways and make asthma even worse. Ozone levels are usually highest in the afternoon, mainly during the summer. So, avoid outdoor activity during the afternoon. You can exercise or go for walks in the morning instead.
Seasonal Pollen
Pollen levels are high in Hyderabad from February to May. A common plant known as congress grass is a major cause of allergy in the city. People with allergic asthma usually notice their symptoms get worse during these months of the year.
When To Get Medical Help
You should get your asthma checked if you are using your reliever inhaler more frequently. You have a continuous chronic cough, and your sleep gets disrupted by cough or wheezing more than twice a week. It is especially important during certain seasons when symptoms get worse. Your regular treatment needs to be adjusted for that time period. So, don't wait for a serious asthma attack; get reviewed early.