Diwali or Deepavali, the festival of fireworks and colours is all about joy, happiness, gifting.

Unfortunately, Diwali in the recent years also triggers unprecedented levels of air and sound pollution causing major environmental issues.

Sometimes, bursting of chemical crackers also cause major health risks particularly for those suffering from asthma, ear, skin and heart issues. 

According to several studies, Suspended Particulate Matters (SPM) with metallic particles like potassium chlorate, sulphur, arsenic sulphate, aluminium, copper emitted through smoke into air are bio-reactive and highly hazardous.  

Though Supreme Court directed the sale green crackers in certain cities for celebrations, they are not available in the market in ample amounts to meet the demand.

Read on to know how to deal with festival related health issues:

Respiratory Issues:

Air pollution causes severe issues for those patients suffering from chronic bronchitis, asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

If you or your loved one have lung issues, avoid fireworks and smoke. Stay indoors till the smoke disappears.

Eye Problems:

Watching firecrackers is a beautiful experience but they are not easy on the eyes. The Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM) can cause severe headaches, migraine and may also make lose focus, if it reaches the level of 100 ppm.

Individuals suffering from frequent headaches, sudden migraine attacks, cataract, glaucoma are advised to stay indoors and watch fireworks from a distance.

Sound Pollution:

The standard sound is 60 decibels for human but during Diwali the sound of fireworks can go beyond 140 decibels. Increased levels of sound pollution may lead to constant ringing in the ears, temporary or permanent hear loss, ear pain and breathing issues.

Make sure to stuff ears with cotton balls to cut down on the noise pollution. Go for silent fireworks to save the environment and animals around.

Heart Patients:

Individuals suffering from heart or other cardio vascular problems are also prone to major difficulties due to fireworks. Sudden sounds and smoke may cause restlessness, high blood pressure, sleep disturbances and even a heart attack.

Stay indoors, spend time with family and friends. Talk to your doctor, if you can take part in celebrations outdoors.

Pregnant Woman:

High levels of noise may cause major issues both with pregnant women and the new-borns. It may lead to hyperactivity or withdrawal symptoms in babies, while pregnant women are at a risk of miscarriage.

Inhaling smoke is hazardous for the pregnant women and babies. Hold your baby close to you and comfort the child during the designated cracker bursting timings.

Diwali celebrations are not just burning crackers alone and don’t let health issues dampen the true spirit of festival of lights.

Netmeds.com Wishes All Its Customers A Happy And Safe Diwali.