With air quality stuck in the “severe” zone, doctors report surging respiratory and cardiac distress and warn that masks and purifiers offer only limited relief without long-term emission cuts

For several days, the city has recorded “severe” and “hazardous” air quality index readings, indicating dangerously high concentrations of fine particulate matter and toxic gases. Pulmonary specialists at leading hospitals in the capital report a marked rise in cases of breathlessness, persistent cough, chest congestion, asthma attacks, eye irritation, headaches and fatigue. Children, older people, pregnant women and patients with chronic heart or lung disease are the worst affected.

Doctors warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air is steadily eroding lung function, even in non-smokers and otherwise healthy adults. Fine particles inhaled into the lungs can travel into the bloodstream, triggering inflammation, aggravating respiratory and cardiac conditions and increasing the long-term risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart attacks and strokes. Clinical experience from Delhi hospitals has also linked sustained exposure to high pollution levels with rising cases of lung cancer, including among those with no history of tobacco use.

While many residents are turning to masks and air purifiers, specialists such as Anant Mohan AIIMS Delhi say these measures offer only limited individual protection. Simple precautions such as avoiding outdoor activity during peak pollution hours, keeping doors and windows closed on smoggy days, stopping indoor smoking and cutting down on incense or open flames can reduce exposure indoors. Some doctors recommend adding air-purifying plants such as areca palm, rubber plant and peace lily, along with diets rich in fruits and vegetables to support the body’s defence against pollutants.

Public health experts emphasise that the crisis now demands sustained structural action to cut emissions from transport, construction, industry, waste burning and seasonal farm practices across Delhi and neighbouring states.