Health Risks of Diwali Firecrackers: How They Affect Your Lungs

The majority of us are unaware that breathing in the smoke and chemicals from firecrackers and fireworks can cause lung ailments and other respiratory problems. Around the world, Diwali firecrackers and fireworks are often used to celebrate important events. However, these joyous celebrations contribute to the creation of dangerous ozone by releasing pollutants into the atmosphere. The burning of crackers can cause lung problems and worsen conditions like Bronchitis, Asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). In this blog, we will examine the detrimental effects of cracker-induced air pollution on lung health and talk about the actions people, particularly those who have lung conditions, can take to enhance their respiratory health.

Dr. Sheetu Singh, a renowned pulmonologist, highlights the serious health risks of Diwali firecrackers and how they affect your lungs. Heavy metals, poisonous gases, and fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) are all released by firecrackers and can readily enter the respiratory system. During and after Diwali celebrations, even healthy people may develop coughing, dyspnea, irritation of the throat, and decreased lung function. Those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children are particularly at risk. Dr. Sheetu Singh emphasizes the need to embrace eco-friendly, safer events to safeguard your lungs and prevent the festival of lights from turning into a health issue.

Cough Specialist, Chest Specialist, Sleep Apnea Specialist, Asthma Specialist, Lung Specialist

How Diwali Firecrackers Contribute to Air Pollution?

During Diwali celebrations, the air quality index considerably deteriorates. The main pollutants released by Diwali firecrackers include sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, lead, barium, and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). These pollutants contribute to air pollution. Once in the atmosphere, they mix with other elements to create ground-level or tropospheric ozone. In sharp contrast to the protective layer of ozone in the stratosphere, the latter is a significant respiratory irritant.

Especially for those with pre-existing respiratory disorders, exposure to these pollutants, particularly at high concentrations during fireworks displays, can have detrimental consequences on respiratory health. Even the so-called “green firecrackers” release particulate matter and pollution, which can be just as dangerous, particularly for susceptible groups.

The Impact on Lung Health 

When people inhale the material that Diwali firecrackers release, they become ill immediately. These symptoms depend on your immune strength as well as the amount of pollution. They can exacerbate respiratory diseases by inflaming the lungs.

1. Acute Effects 

Bronchitis Symptoms: Many people discover that firecrackers only cause temporary side effects, such as coughing, wheezing, and breathing issues (particularly for persons who already have health issues). Bronchitic attacks can happen to those who have bronchitis or asthma.

2. Long-Term Effects 

• Worsening of Lung Conditions: Cracker pollution can cause chronic lung conditions, including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), which can necessitate hospitalization. In severe cases, patients who are unable to breathe on their own may develop respiratory failure as a result, requiring additional oxygen via a tube or ventilator support.
• Higher Risk of Infections: The pollutants degrade the respiratory organs and impair immunity, making them vulnerable to seasonally-related bacterial, viral, and flu diseases.

At Risk During Diwali: Who Should Be Cautious?

Some demographic groups are more vulnerable to the negative consequences of crackers, including but not restricted to:

• Children and the Elderly: Compared to adults, their lungs are more susceptible to pollutants, but they are not immune enough to successfully fight off many illnesses.
• People with Existing Lung Diseases: People with bronchitis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or other respiratory disorders are especially susceptible to the negative consequences of Diwali firecracker pollution.
• Patients with Heart-Related Issues: The cardiovascular system may also be impacted by the poisonous smoke, which could weaken the heart and raise the risk of heart attacks.

Protects Your Lungs During Diwali: Essential Tips

Here are some crucial steps you should take to reduce the damaging effects of firework pollution on the lungs, particularly during festivals like Diwali:

• Stay Indoors: Stays indoors if possible, especially during fireworks. 
• Use an Air Purifier: By using an air purifier with HEPA capabilities, the likelihood of indoor air pollution can be reduced.
• Closing Windows and Doors: You can keep smoke and other dangerous particles out of your home by closing your doors and windows.
• Use Medications Prescribed: Patients with asthma should always have their medications and inhalers with them. Before the festival season, it is always advised to see a doctor so that any necessary medication modifications can be performed.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: It is important to avoid dangerous actions when exhibiting fireworks because the physical activity causes the body to absorb a lot of dirty air.
• Wear a Mask: A N95 or other mask that filters tiny particles will provide some protection if you must be outside when fireworks are being set off.
• Be Air Quality Aware: Use apps or websites to view real-time air pollution data so you can decide whether to stay indoors during high pollution levels.
• Opt for Eco-friendly Options: Celebrate with diyas, light displays, and rangolis with organic colours and flowers that don’t create any kind of air pollution.
• Vaccination: Immunizations against influenza and pneumonia might help prevent infections that could exacerbate respiratory disorders, especially during holiday seasons.

FAQs 

Why are Diwali firecrackers harmful to the lungs?

Toxic fumes and tiny particles released by firecrackers irritate the lungs and impair breathing.

Who is most at risk from cracker smoke?

Elderly people, children, and those with asthma or lung diseases are most vulnerable.

Can healthy people also be affected?

Yes, even healthy people may face cough, shortness of breath, and throat irritation.

How long do firecracker effects last in the air?

Pollutants may remain for hours or days, damaging the lungs and reducing the quality of the air.

How can I protect myself during Diwali?

Avoid crowded cracker areas, wear a mask, use air purifiers indoors, and choose eco-friendly celebrations.