HOW AIR POLLUTION AFFECTS YOUR LUNGS & HEALTH

 


Data has shown that a majority of the global population breath in air that is beyond the WHO guideline limits. Air pollution isn’t just about exhaust smokes in big cities, it’s a silent threat that affects our lungs and overall health every day.

What Is Air Pollution?

Air pollution refers to contamination of our indoor and outdoor atmospheric environment by harmful particles and gases filling the air we breathe. These pollutants come from:

  • Man-made activities: Vehicle emissions, factories, and power plants.
  • Natural Sources: Wildfires, dust storms, and volcanic activity.

Even though they are not always visible, these pollutants are in the air and they can harm your body.

 

How Air Pollution Affects Your Lungs

When you breathe in polluted air, tiny particles enter your lungs and can cause problems both immediately and later on.

  • Short-term effects include:
    • Coughing and throat irritation.
    • Breathing difficulties, especially if you have asthma.
  • Long-term effects can include:
    • Chronic conditions like asthma and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease).
    • An increased risk of lung cancer due to constant exposure to harmful chemicals.

Beyond the Lungs: Overall Health Impacts

The effect of air pollution isn’t limited to just the lungs. It can also:

  • Affect Your Heart: contributing to heart disease and even strokes.
  • Weaken Your Immune System: Making you more susceptible to infections and other illnesses.
  • Hurt the Brain: with Some studies suggesting pollution may be linked to cognitive decline.

How to Protect Yourself

While we need broader efforts to clean our air, here are some practical steps you can take:

  • Reduce Exposure:
  • Stay indoors on days when air quality is poor.
  • Use air purifiers at home.
  • Wear a Mask:
    Especially when you're outdoors during high pollution periods.
  • Live Healthy:

·       Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables to help fight inflammation.

·       Exercise indoors on high-pollution days.

 

In Conclusion

Air pollution may be invisible, but its effects on your lungs and overall health are very real. By understanding what air pollution is and taking simple, everyday steps to reduce exposure, you can protect your health and help push for a cleaner, healthier environment.

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