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Air quality across several major cities in Karnataka, including Bengaluru, Shivamogga, Mangaluru and Udupi, has deteriorated significantly, triggering concern among residents and health experts alike.

The steady rise in pollution levels over the past few days has pushed Air Quality Index (AQI) readings into unhealthy categories.

Bangalore has recorded an AQI of 176, edging close to the 200-mark, which falls under the ‘unhealthy’ category. Experts warn that sustained exposure to such air can lead to respiratory illnesses, aggravate asthma and increase the risk of other lung-related complications.

What is Air Quality Index (AQI):

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a standardized index used globally to measure the quality of air we breathe. With the constant urbanization and industrialization, the pollution is on a constant increase and thus the AQI is more important than ever. 

It is color coded and ranges from 0 to 500, with lower numbers indicating good quality air and higher numbers indicating bad quality polluted air. 

The primary pollutants that increase the AQI are Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Ozone (O₃), and Ammonia (NH₃). Based on the effect on health, the AQI is again divided into 6 categories:

  • Good (0-50)
  • Moderate (51-100)
  • Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150)
  • Unhealthy (151-200)
  • Very Unhealthy (201-300)
  • Hazardous (301-500)

Significance of AQI:

AQI helps the government to take appropriate actions for pollution control and health planning for high risk cases like children, elderly or people with already existing respiratory diseases. 

Harmful Effects of Poor AQI on the Body:

  • Respiratory Issues: Poor AQI may lead to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis and chronic lung disease. People who have already existing respiratory issues may start having symptoms at an AQI of 101-150 also.
  • Cardiovascular Issues: Exposure to polluted air may cause inflammation and oxidative stress that may lead to heart attacks or stroke. 
  • Increased Stress Levels: Chronically bad AQI may increase anxiety and chances of depression. 
  • General Well Being: Bad AQI triggers headaches, allergies, eye irritation and throat irritation. This affects the quality of life. 
  • Increase the risk of Cancer: Long term exposure to bad AQI may increase the risk of lunch cancer.

How You Can Protect Yourself:

  • Check the AQI regularly.
  • Stay indoors during the high pollution hours with doors and windows properly closed.
  • Use air purifiers like HEPA filters at home.
  • Use N95 masks while going out as the cloth masks are not very effective.
  • Promote indoor exercising or in a gym with proper air filtration.
  • Stay well hydrated and eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants.

When to See the Doctor:

Visit the Doctor if you stay in a high AQI zone and have started developing breathing issues or if there is worsening of already existing health issues. Children and older adults are more sensitive to air pollution. Seek medical advice if they show signs such as difficulty in breathing, wheezing, irritability, loss of appetite or tiredness. Pregnant women should also be cautious.

Disclaimer: This article is written by Practo for informational and educational purposes only. The content presented on this page should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. Please "DO NOT SELF-MEDICATE" and seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Practo will not be responsible for any act or omission arising from the interpretation of the content present on this page.