Delhi AQI dips to 'severe category': Experts warn inhaling toxic air increases heart attack risk, check tips to prevent it

Air pollution in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR) continues to be a significant threat. The national capital breathed the most toxic air on Monday morning, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) levels standing at 481 and being in the 'severe plus' category (450+) at all places.?

According to Swiss air technology firm IQAir, AQI readings across the city ranged from 1,300 to 1,600 on Monday morning. The depleting AQI levels forced the authorities to implement Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (Grap). This is considered an emergency-level action that is focused on reducing the air pollution levels in the city.?

The toxic air quality and smog have crossed past 60 times the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended daily maximum levels. Realising the dangerous effects of air pollution, the schools in Delhi have switched to online classes until further notification. However, earlier, the government also took initiatives to curb air pollution, but still, reports have confirmed that smog has led to thousands of premature deaths every year, particularly impacting the health of children and the elderly.?

Air pollution raises the risk of heart attacks

Experts have warned that exposure to poor air quality significantly increases the risk of heart attacks. “Particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) pollutants trigger inflammation, damage blood vessels, and disrupt cardiovascular function. Even short-term exposure can cause cardiac arrhythmias, hypertension, and thrombosis,” says Dr Pavan Rasalkar, Consultant-Interventional Cardiology, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi.?

People with pre-existing heart conditions, diabetes, and older adults are most vulnerable. Reducing exposure and adopting clean lifestyle habits can help mitigate this risk. Poor air quality, particularly fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants, increases the risk of heart attacks. Polluted air can increase BP and cause oxidative stress, all of which can affect cardiovascular health.?

Tips to protect your heart amid rising air pollution?

Track the air quality levels: To better prepare yourself for reducing these potential risks and protecting your heart, it is important to keep track of air quality. This can easily be done by using apps or visiting websites.?

Do not step out until needed: In addition, try to avoid outdoor activities when the quality of air is poor. If you suffer from some heart condition, you should avoid outside workout sessions.?

Use air purifiers: Using purifiers can reduce the pollutant level indoors. With regard to exercise, avoid outdoor workouts in a polluted environment and go for indoor activities or well-ventilated gyms.?

Use N95 mask: One may safely use necessary masks in polluted areas, such as an N95 respirator that filters out harmful particles.?

Follow a healthy routine: Maintaining an out-and-out lifestyle of healthiness is also important; frequent physical activities, proper sleep habits, and stress management will strengthen cardiovascular health. Moreover, smoking should be avoided because it aggravates the adverse effects of air pollution on the heart.?

Eat healthy: Follow an overall well-balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids as they help protect heart health.

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