Category: BLOG

By Dr. Onkar Jha – Consultant Pulmonologist, Ranchi

🔶 Why Do Lung Problems Increase in Winter?

Winter is one of the toughest seasons for people with respiratory issues like asthma, COPD, bronchitis, allergic cough, or lung infections. According to Dr. Onkar Jha, one of the best pulmonologists in Ranchi, cold air directly irritates the airways, making breathing difficult.

Here’s why winter worsens lung diseases:

1️⃣ Cold Air Narrows Airways

Breathing cold air makes the air tubes tighten, leading to:

• Coughing
• Wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness

This is especially dangerous for asthma and COPD patients.

2️⃣ Pollution & Smog Increase in Winter

Low temperatures trap pollutants near ground level, increasing exposure to:

• Smoke
• Dust
• Industrial pollution
• Vehicle emissions

These irritants easily trigger bronchospasm and worsen COPD attacks.

3️⃣ Viral Infections Spread Faster

Winter increases infections like:

• Flu
• Viral fever
• Pneumonia
• RSV
• Allergic cold

These infections affect people with weak lungs more severely.

4️⃣ Indoor Air Quality Becomes Poor

People stay indoors, leading to:

• Low ventilation
• Dust accumulation
• Pet dander
• Mold exposure

This increases allergic cough, sinus issues, and asthma flare-ups.

5️⃣ Reduced Immunity in Winter

Body immunity drops slightly in cold weather, making lungs more prone to:

• Infections
• Acute bronchitis
• COPD exacerbations

🔶 Common Symptoms to Watch Out For

• Constant coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Fever or chills
• Tightness in chest
• Phlegm production
• Fatigue

If symptoms last more than 2–3 days, consult a specialist immediately.

🔶 Who Is at High Risk in Winter?

• Smokers
• COPD patients
• Asthma patients
• Senior citizens
• Children
• People with dust/pet allergies
• Diabetics & heart patients

🔶 Tips to Protect Your Lungs This Winter – Expert Advice by Dr. Onkar Jha

✔ Wear a Mask Outdoors

Protects from cold air + pollution.

✔ Stay Hydrated

Keeps mucus thin and reduces coughing.

✔ Use Your Inhaler Regularly

Never skip inhaled medications during winter.

✔ Avoid Early Morning & Late Night Exposure

These are the coldest times of day.

✔ Maintain Room Ventilation

Avoid smoke, incense, or dust inside home.

✔ Get Flu & Pneumonia Vaccination

Recommended for COPD, asthma, and elderly patients.

✔ Quit Smoking

Nothing damages lungs faster during winter.

🔶 When to Visit a Pulmonologist?

Seek immediate care if you experience:

• Breathlessness at rest
• Persistent cough more than 1 week
• Blood in sputum
• Chest pain
• High fever
• Repeated COPD/asthma attacks

Early treatment prevents lung damage and hospitalization.

🔶 Why Choose Dr. Onkar Jha?

• Experienced Pulmonologist & Chest Specialist in Ranchi
• Expert in COPD, Asthma, Allergy, Tuberculosis, Pneumonia, Sleep Apnea
• Advanced lung function testing
• Personalized treatment plans
• Patient-friendly approach

Dr. Jha emphasizes:

“Winter is the most challenging season for the lungs. Timely management and preventive care can completely avoid severe attacks.”

Early Signs of Lung Diseases You Should Never Ignore

By Dr. Onkar Jha | Respiratory & Pulmonary Specialist | Ranchi

Lung diseases are among the most common health issues affecting people in India, especially due to pollution, smoking, infections, and changing lifestyles. Many lung conditions start silently, with symptoms so mild that people often ignore them until the disease becomes serious.

Recognizing the early symptoms of lung disease can help you get timely treatment and prevent complications. In this blog, we discuss the most common warning signs to watch out for and why early diagnosis is essential.

⭐ Why Early Detection of Lung Disease Matters

If lung disease is diagnosed early:

• Treatment becomes simpler and more effective
• Hospitalization can be avoided
• Risk of long-term lung damage decreases
• Breathing capacity can be preserved
• Quality of life improves

Early treatment often prevents diseases like asthma, COPD, pneumonia, and fibrosis from becoming severe or life-threatening.

🔴 1. Persistent Cough for More Than 3 Weeks

A cough that does not go away—even after medication—is one of the earliest signs of lung disease.
It may indicate:

• Asthma
• Chronic bronchitis
• Tuberculosis (TB)
• COVID-related lung damage
• Lung cancer in rare cases

If the cough lasts more than 3 weeks, consult a pulmonologist immediately.

🔴 2. Shortness of Breath (Breathlessness)

If you feel breathless while walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities, it could be a warning sign.
Possible causes:

• Asthma
• COPD
• Pneumonia
• Interstitial lung disease
• Heart-related problems

Breathlessness should never be ignored, especially if it is new or worsening.

🔴 3. Chest Tightness or Pain

Chest tightness, pressure, or discomfort may indicate:

• Asthma flare-ups
• Lung infection
• Inflammation in the airways
• Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
• Pulmonary embolism

Seek urgent evaluation if chest pain occurs with breathlessness.

🔴 4. Wheezing or Whistling Sound While Breathing

Wheezing occurs when airways become narrow or blocked.
It may indicate:

• Asthma
• Allergic reactions
• COPD
• Lung infections
• Environmental allergies

Early diagnosis can prevent long-term breathing difficulties.

🔴 5. Chronic Fatigue or Lack of Energy

When lungs do not function properly, the body gets less oxygen. This results in:

• Tiredness
• Low energy
• Reduced stamina
• Difficulty concentrating

Fatigue combined with breathing issues is often a sign of underlying lung disease.

🔴 6. Frequent Respiratory Infections

If you frequently suffer from:

• Cough
• Cold
• Sinus infections
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia

…your lung immunity may be weak.
Repeated infections can cause long-term damage to the airways.

🔴 7. Coughing Up Blood (Hemoptysis)

This is a serious warning sign, especially if accompanied by weight loss or fever.
It may indicate:

• Tuberculosis (TB)
• Lung cancer
• Severe lung infection
• Bronchiectasis

Immediate medical evaluation is necessary.

🔴 8. Unexplained Weight Loss

Sudden, unintended weight loss may be linked to:

• Chronic lung infections
• Advanced lung disease
• TB
• Lung cancer

Weight loss is often the body’s response to chronic illness.

🔴 9. Swelling in Legs or Ankles

This may occur in late-stage lung disease due to low oxygen levels leading to heart strain.
It can indicate:

• Pulmonary hypertension
• COPD
• Heart and lung interaction complications

⭐ When Should You See a Pulmonologist?

You should consult a lung specialist if:

• Symptoms last longer than 2–3 weeks
• Breathing becomes difficult
• There is recurrent chest discomfort
• You are a smoker or exposed to dust/pollution
• You have a history of asthma or allergies
• You have chronic cough after COVID or TB

Early diagnosis by a pulmonologist can prevent mild symptoms from becoming severe.

👨‍⚕️ About Dr. Onkar Jha (Respiratory & Pulmonology Specialist, Ranchi)

Dr. Onkar Jha specializes in diagnosing and treating:

• Asthma
• COPD
• Pneumonia
• TB
• Lung infections
• Post-COVID complications
• Interstitial lung disease
• Sleep apnea
• Allergies
• Smoking-related lung disorders

His approach focuses on early detection, personalized treatment, and long-term lung care.

🌫️ 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:

1. 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.
2. Use an N95 Mask Outdoors
   Wearing a proper mask can filter harmful particles and prevent them from entering your lungs.
3. 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
4. Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy
   A diet rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and omega-3 helps strengthen your lungs.
5. Avoid Smoking or Passive Smoke
   Smoking further damages your lungs, especially when combined with polluted air.
6. 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.

🤧 बार-बार खांसी होना क्यों खतरनाक है?

अगर आपको या आपके किसी परिजन को 3 हफ्तों से ज्यादा समय से खांसी बनी हुई है, तो यह आम सर्दी-ज़ुकाम नहीं बल्कि किसी गंभीर फेफड़ों की बीमारी का संकेत हो सकता है।

🚨 संभावित कारण:

1. टीबी (Tuberculosis)
2. एलर्जी ब्रोंकाइटिस या डस्ट एलर्जी
3. क्रॉनिक ब्रोंकाइटिस (COPD)
4. फेफड़ों में संक्रमण या निमोनिया
5. फेफड़ों की फाइब्रोसिस (ILD)
6. एसिड रिफ्लक्स या पोस्ट-नासल ड्रिप
7. स्मोकिंग से जुड़ी समस्याएं

🧪 सही पहचान कैसे होती है?

डॉ. ओंकार झा के क्लिनिक में उन्नत जांच और टेस्टिंग से बीमारी की सही पहचान की जाती है:

• ✅ PFT (Pulmonary Function Test)
• ✅ X-ray / HRCT Chest
• ✅ Allergy टेस्ट
• ✅ Sputum टेस्ट / GeneXpert for TB
• ✅ Pulse Oximetry & Oxygen Monitoring

📋 इलाज कैसे होता है?

डॉ. झा की इलाज विधि:

• हर मरीज की व्यक्तिगत हिस्ट्री और लक्षण को समझकर इलाज तय करना
• इनहेलर थेरेपी, नेबुलाइजेशन और दवाओं का संतुलित उपयोग
• एलर्जी कंट्रोल के लिए लाइफस्टाइल में बदलाव और दवाएं
• टीबी के लिए लंबे समय तक फॉलोअप और काउंसलिंग
• पोस्ट कोविड मरीजों के लिए स्पेशल रिहैब प्रोटोकॉल

🧑‍⚕️ क्यों चुनें डॉ. ओंकार झा, रांची?

• ✔️ पल्मोनरी डिजीज में वर्षों का अनुभव
• ✔️ मरीजों के लिए सहज, समझदारी भरी भाषा में काउंसलिंग
• ✔️ एडवांस टेक्नोलॉजी और आधुनिक जाँच
• ✔️ हर मरीज के लिए पर्सनल ट्रीटमेंट प्लान

📞 संपर्क करें:

डॉ. ओंकार झा

By Dr. Onkar K. Jha – DM, Pulmonary Medicine | Ranchi

Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. A mild shortness of breath while climbing stairs might not seem alarming, but if you frequently experience breathing discomfort, it could be your body’s early warning sign of an underlying lung condition.

As a pulmonologist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen many patients delay their visit until symptoms become severe. Early detection, however, is key to effective treatment and long-term lung health.

Common Respiratory Symptoms That Need Attention

• Persistent cough (dry or with mucus)
• Wheezing or noisy breathing
• Chest tightness or pain
• Shortness of breath during routine activities
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Morning fatigue or disturbed sleep (possible sign of sleep apnea)

Ignoring these signs can delay diagnosis of serious conditions like Asthma, COPD, Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD), Tuberculosis, or even Lung Cancer.

What Causes Breathing Issues?

Some of the most common causes include:

• Air Pollution – Ranchi and other cities have seen rising air pollution levels, worsening asthma and COPD.
• Smoking – Tobacco use is a major risk factor for chronic bronchitis and lung cancer.
• Allergies – Dust, pollen, or seasonal changes can trigger respiratory allergies.
• Infections – Tuberculosis, pneumonia, and post-COVID complications can damage lung tissue.
• Sleep Disorders – Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is an underdiagnosed condition that affects quality of life and heart health.

When to See a Pulmonologist

If your symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, or you notice worsening breathlessness or fatigue, consult a trained lung specialist. As the first DM Pulmonary Medicine specialist in Ranchi, I use advanced diagnostic tools like:

• Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
• Chest Ultrasound
• Bronchoscopy and Medical Thoracoscopy
• Sleep Studies and EBUS-TBNA
  These tests help in precise diagnosis and personalized treatment planning.

Take a Breath, Take a Step Forward

Your lungs are vital to every function in your body—from your brain to your heart. Treating a cough early or managing asthma properly can improve your overall health, productivity, and life expectancy.

If you or your loved one is struggling with breathing issues, don’t delay. Early consultation with a pulmonary specialist can make all the difference.