🌫️ Introduction
Ranchi, once known for its clean and green environment, is now facing rising levels of air pollution due to rapid urbanization, vehicle emissions, and industrial growth. The increasing pollution is silently harming the lungs of thousands of residents, leading to respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, COPD, and allergic cough.
Dr. Onkar Jha, a leading pulmonologist in Ranchi, shares how pollution impacts your lung health and what you can do to protect yourself and your family.
💨 How Air Pollution Damages Your Lungs
Polluted air contains harmful particles such as PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. These fine particles enter deep into the lungs and cause:
- Inflammation and irritation of the airways
- Reduced oxygen exchange in the lungs
- Chronic cough and breathlessness
- Worsening of asthma and COPD symptoms
- Long-term risk of lung cancer and heart disease
Even healthy individuals may experience difficulty breathing during peak pollution days, while children, the elderly, and asthma patients are at higher risk.
🚨 Common Symptoms Caused by Air Pollution
If you live in Ranchi and experience any of these symptoms frequently, it might be due to poor air quality:
- Persistent dry cough
- Chest tightness or heaviness
- Shortness of breath on mild exertion
- Wheezing or whistling sound while breathing
- Irritation in throat, nose, or eyes
Ignoring these symptoms can lead to long-term respiratory illness, warns Dr. Onkar Jha.
🩺 Tips by Dr. Onkar Jha to Protect Your Lungs
Here are some expert-recommended ways to minimize the impact of air pollution on your lungs:
- Check Air Quality Daily
Use mobile apps or websites to monitor the AQI (Air Quality Index) and limit outdoor activities when pollution levels are high. - Use an N95 Mask Outdoors
Wearing a proper mask can filter harmful particles and prevent them from entering your lungs. - Keep Indoor Air Clean
- Use air purifiers if possible
- Keep windows closed during heavy traffic hours
- Grow indoor plants like peace lily or snake plant
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy
A diet rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and omega-3 helps strengthen your lungs. - Avoid Smoking or Passive Smoke
Smoking further damages your lungs, especially when combined with polluted air. - Get Regular Lung Check-Ups
Visit a pulmonologist for periodic check-ups and lung function tests like Spirometry or FOT test to detect any early signs of damage.
🌿 Importance of Early Diagnosis
Pollution-related lung diseases progress silently. Regular screening and early diagnosis help prevent complications.
At Dr. Onkar Jha’s clinic in Ranchi, patients receive comprehensive respiratory care with modern diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and guidance on lifestyle modifications to improve lung health.
