Prayagraj: Every winter, many cities and towns in northern India are shrouded in a thick blanket of smog. Eye irritation, coughing, shortness of breath, and a hazy, smoke-filled sky are all visible. Pollution is commonly linked to lung disease, but its impact on the heart is less understood. It’s important for the public to understand that winter air pollution poses a serious threat not only to respiratory health but also to cardiovascular health.
A major reason for increased pollution in winter is that smoke and toxic gases get trapped near the ground. Cold weather creates a temperature inversion, where warmer air above prevents polluted air from rising and spreading. As a result, smoke from vehicles, factories, wood and garbage burning, stubble burning, and firecrackers during festivals lingers in the air for longer. Poor wind and fog can also contribute to high pollution levels for days.
Dr. Ripen Gupta, Principal Director and Unit Head, Department of Cardiac Sciences (Cardiology), Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, explained, “This polluted air contains extremely fine particles like PM2.5, which can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream. Once in the body, these particles increase inflammation and irritation in the blood vessels, putting additional strain on the heart. Blood pressure can rise, the heart has to work harder, and the risk of blood clots increases. For people with pre-existing heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or the elderly, polluted air can trigger serious conditions like heart attack, heart failure, or heart failure. During peak smog days, hospitalizations for heart-related emergencies often increase. Furthermore, even those who consider themselves “perfectly healthy” are not completely safe. Long-term, repeated exposure to polluted air gradually damages the heart and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease in the long run.”
Pollution also impacts everyday habits. During smog-filled days, people avoid going out for walks or exercising. Reduced physical activity, mental stress, and poor air quality all increase the risk of heart disease. Meanwhile, cold weather itself constricts blood vessels, increasing blood pressure and putting additional strain on the heart.
Dr. Ripen further explained, “Awareness and some simple precautions are essential for heart protection during winter pollution. Limit outdoor activities on days with very poor air quality, especially in the morning. People with heart disease should take their medications regularly and consult a doctor immediately if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, unusual shortness of breath, or a rapid heartbeat. Using an indoor air purifier, keeping windows closed during peak pollution hours, and avoiding smoking altogether are also helpful.”
Winter air pollution in North India poses a silent but serious threat to the heart. Understanding its risks and taking timely precautions is not only important for personal health but also supports long-term efforts to ensure better air quality for all.
