India's Air Pollution Scare: Can These Precautionary Tips Prove Useful?

With certain localities of Delhi such as Vasant Vihar's C Block reporting an Air Quality Index, (AQI) of 1,300 (hazardous category) and national capital of India witnessing it worst air quality, need for every citizen to take equate precautionary measures becomes need of hour.

Why is air pollution an alarming concern?

Air pollution, known to affect people's health in both short term, and long run spres through presence of harmful substance in air like gases, and chemicals, that can cause respiratory irritation, coughing, shortness of breath, and worsen asthma and allergies. It's also capable of increasing risk of chronic respiratory, cardiovascular diseases, and lung cancer.

Precautionary measures to improve your local AQI

Track AQI: Keep check on local air quality index (AQI). A simple web search would let you know about latest air quality reings.

Indoor air purifiers: Indoor air quality can also suffer from pollutants, especially in urban homes, and offce spaces close to busy streets.

Protective mask: When pollution levels are rising towards being hazardous, wearing a mask such as N95 can filter out fine particles from air.

Stay hydrated, here to antioxidant-rich diet: Staying hydrated supports your body in flushing out toxins, and an antioxidant rich diet like berries, and spinach helps combat oxidative stress caused by pollutants.

Indoor plants: Snake plants, peace lilies, and spider plants are known for ir air-purifying properties and can contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

Ventilation is primary: Open windows, doors when outdoor air quality is better, usually in wee hours of day or late night.

Plant trees: higher rate of planting trees has a direct impact on level of fresher oxygen that gets released in your environment.

Minimal driving: Driving only for long distances and avoiding taking your car out for a spin every time you step out reduces rate of vehicular emission effectively.