1 week Ago By Prerna Mittra
Air Pollution And Health Risks Did you know that air pollution does not only impact the environment, but can also cause significant health issues in people, especially pregnant women? Air pollution is a growing concern across the world. During certain times of the year, pollution levels worsen, and one must take necessary precautions for their health. Exposure to pollution increases the risk of various health issues, including respiratory problems, chronic cough, asthma, bronchitis, allergic reaction, sinus infection, weakened immune system, cardiovascular diseases, and premature ageing, Dr Tanveer Aujla, senior consultant, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida, points out.
Air Pollution Exposure Risk During Pregnancy According to the doctor, exposure to air pollution can negatively impact the physical well-being of a pregnant woman. It increases the risk of serious complications like low birth weight of the baby, premature delivery, developmental delays, stillbirth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, miscarriage, and disrupted fetal growth. There are various myths when it comes to the link between air pollution and pregnancy.
Here, the doctor busts four such myths by providing solid facts. Scroll down. Also Read - High Air Pollution Alert: Inhaling Toxic Smog Can Lead To Stroke, Damage Brain Permanently Myth 1: Air Pollution Only Impacts A Mother’s Health Fact: Air pollution can affect the growth and development of the baby, too.
It can cause severe complications like low birth weight during the delivery, premature birth, heart-related issues, and respiratory problems. Harmful chemicals can directly affect the baby through the mother’s exposure, Dr Aujla warns. Myth 2: Staying Indoors Will Eliminate Risk Of Air Pollution Exposure Fact: It is a common misconception that air is only polluted outdoors, not indoors.
Air pollution can also be harmful indoors due to various factors like cooking fumes, cigarette or tobacco smoke, artificial fragrance, smell of cleaning products, and gas stoves. Polluted air can also enter the house when the windows or doors are open. Also Read - The Hidden Dangers of Particulate Matter: Why We Need to Take Action Myth 3: All Pregnant Women Exposed To Smog Or Air Pollution Will Experience Complications Fact: Not all pregnant women exposed to air pollution will experience health issues.
Various risk factors, however, can heighten their chances of experiencing problems. This includes certain health conditions, levels of exposure, and the type of lifestyle choices they make throughout the pregnancy. Myth 4: One Cannot Reverse The Effects Of Air Pollution If A Baby Is Exposed During Pregnancy Fact: One can significantly reverse the side effects of air pollution during pregnancy.
This can be achieved with the help of early detection by going for regular health checkups and screenings. This can provide vital information about the mother's health. Individuals are also advised to take precautions to improve indoor air quality by keeping the house clean and using an air humidifier.
Also Read - How To Keep Your Lungs Healthy: 10 Tips To Naturally Detox Your Lungs Amid Rising Air Pollution.
