Effects of Smog: The Ultimate Guide to Protect Your Health
Effects of Smog: Even this year, Lahore ranks among the most polluted cities in the world. While our city is in close competition with Delhi, the Indian city that has earned the unfortunate title of the world’s most polluted city, Lahore is currently in second place.
Lahore’s current air quality index is 201-265, which is not just bad; it is deadly to human lungs. The city is so polluted that in the evening it looks like there is fog outside, but the pollution is so thick that it reduces visibility.
Let’s take a look at smog, how it is created, how dangerous it is to human health, especially the lungs, and how we can protect our health against the effects of smog.
What Is Smog?
Smog is a type of air pollution that results from the combination of multiple pollutants. These pollutants are released in the environment naturally as well as through human activities.
Although smog contains a variety of chemicals, its two main components are particulate matter and ground-level ozone. Smog is mainly produced by the burning of large quantities of high-sulfur coal; however, a new term, “photochemical smog,” has recently emerged.
Unlike regular smog, photochemical smog is a combination of vehicle emissions and solar radiation. It is commonly found in populated cities with a large number of vehicles.
Health Effects of Smog
Effects of Smog: Smog negatively affects the human lungs by irritating and inflaming the airways, making breathing difficult and causing or worsening respiratory problems. The primary components of smog are ground-level ozone and fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅), which are not good for human lungs.
When inhaled, the ozone in smog reacts with lung tissues, causing inflammation, irritation, and even scarring of the tissue. It can worsen asthma symptoms, reduce lung function, and lead to coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath.
While these conditions are possible, they may not affect you as severely as your body has developed some resistance to smog, especially if you live in Lahore. Our immune system can adapt to frequent exposure to certain pollutants and irritants and build up a degree of resistance, such as this smog.
However, this does not mean that smog is not harmful. Many people in Lahore will still see flu-like symptoms, fever, and sore throats due to constant exposure to smog.
If you’re experiencing these light symptoms, it’s because the smog is triggering your respiratory system. However, your respiratory system has developed a strong resistance to smog, so it cannot be seriously damaged. Mild flu and sore throat are, of course, possible.
So it is better not to push your immune system to its limits and try to avoid exposure to smog.
Precautionary Measures Against Smog
Now that we know the causes of smog, let’s see what preventive measures we can take to protect ourselves and our loved ones to reduce the Effects of Smog.
Limited Outdoor Activity
It is recommended that you try to limit your outdoor activities during smog season, especially during midday when ozone levels are highest.
If you go to exercise or run every day, try to choose a different time or exercise at home.
Indoor Air Purifier
It is essential that you breathe clean air, and for this, you can get an air purifier at home. An indoor purifier is essential because it reduces the concentration of air pollutants in the air.
These filters remove smoke, dust, asbestos, pollen, pet dander, etc. from the air and allow you to breathe healthy air. Along with this, it also saves you from many allergies.
Also read: 5 Best Air Purifiers in Pakistan – The Ultimate Guide
Wear Face Masks
As smog covers the entire city, the air quality continues to deteriorate, leaving people with no choice but to breathe unhealthy air. Since none of us will be outside for very long, it’s best to start using a cloth face covering or face mask.
These masks protect us from dangerous health problems and prevent harmful gases from entering our lungs.
Detoxify Your Lungs
Effects of Smog: One of the biggest favors you can do yourself during smog season is to detox your lungs. It may sound a bit complicated, but it is very easy. All you have to do is consume Jaggery.
Popularly known as Gurr, Jaggery can be added to food or eaten raw.
Stay Hydrated
Another extremely easy method of lung detoxification is to keep the body hydrated. It is recommended to consume enough fluids, especially water, to flush out the harmful substances present in your body.
Take Healthy Diet
People who specialize in health recommend adding detox foods to your diet because they boost your immunity. Add vitamin C, omega fatty acids and magnesium-rich foods to your diet.
Also increase your intake of fruits and nuts.
Also read: 10 Lazy Ways To Make Money Online While You Sleep
Keep Your Surroundings Clean
The idea of having plants and planting trees can never be emphasized enough. It is ideal if you have plants in your home as they play a vital role in maintaining a healthier and more breathable environment.
Along with this, as recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), you should mop the floor to reduce dust.
That’s what it’s all about! We hope this guide will help you protect yourself and your loved ones from smog. If you have any other suggestions, feel free to drop them in the comments section below.
Also read: 5 Best Humidifiers in Pakistan – The Ultimate Guide