What are the effects of air pollution on health?

Air pollution can indeed be a significant health risk, with both immediate and long-term implications. For children, who are still growing and have developing respiratory systems, exposure to poor air quality can exacerbate issues like asthma, allergic reactions, and can even lower lung function over time. Your son’s coughing and sore throat might be related to the pollution, especially if these symptoms coincide with high smog days. Long-term exposure to air pollution in adults can increase the risk of serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and can impair cognitive function over time. It’s also been linked to higher rates of anxiety and depression. Your mother’s breathlessness could potentially be linked to air quality, particularly if she’s exposed to pollution on her walks. Signs of prolonged exposure include persistent cough, chest pain, and a decreased ability to exercise. For children, in particular, pay attention to behavior changes, increased frequency of respiratory infections, or an unexplained drop in their ability to play or participate in physical activities. To mitigate these effects, try to monitor air quality indexes online and minimize outdoor activities during high pollution days. Installing high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in your home may help reduce indoor pollution. Encourage wearing masks that filter pollutants while outside, and ensure regular medical check-ups for those affected to monitor any changes potentially linked to air quality. In cases with respiratory symptoms, consider seeking consultation with a healthcare provider to evaluate and manage any emerging conditions.