New Delhi: Air quality in India has deteriorated significantly after the burning of firecrackers on Diwali. The air has become highly polluted, and this bad air can quality cause significant harm to your body. But you don’t need to worry; AIIMS doctor Dr. Piyush Ranjan has provided specific advice on how to avoid bad air quality.
How Bad Air Quality Affects Your Body
When air quality is poor—especially when the AQI (Air Quality Index) goes above 100—the air contains harmful fine particles (PM 2.5 and PM 10) that can enter your lungs and bloodstream. Long-term exposure to these particles increases the risk of heart disease, asthma, stroke, and even cancer.
AIIMS Doctor’s Advice
“It is important to understand that air pollution (Bad air quality) affects various systems of the body, in addition to causing respiratory diseases. Pollution has direct relations with coronary artery diseases like heart attack, brain stroke, and arthritis. We have scientific evidence that it establishes its relationship with different types of cancer.” — Dr Piyush Ranjan, AIIMS, New Delhi
How to Protect Yourself from Air Pollution (Bad Air)
Check the AQI daily: Avoid outdoor activities when the Air Quality Index is above 100
Use N95 or KN95 masks: These filter out harmful fine particles effectively
Stay indoors on high-pollution days: Keep windows and doors closed, especially during morning and evening hours
Use air purifiers: A good HEPA purifier helps clean indoor air in bedrooms and living spaces
Avoid smoking, candles, and incense: They worsen indoor air quality
Keep your home dust free, clean floor and window properly
Eat antioxidant-rich foods: Fruits like oranges, berries, and vegetables like spinach
Hydrate well: Drinking lots of water keeps the respiratory tract moist and helps flush toxins
Do steam inhalation once a day: Especially beneficial for people with asthma or sinus problems
Bhavesh Gaikwad
Content Editor – MedicoDrive.com
Bhavesh Gaikwad is a highly experienced content editor and writing with over 10 years of expertise in the field of digital journalism.