As winter sets in across North India, cities like Delhi, Rohtak, and Haryana face a serious challenge: rising air pollution and worsening asthma symptoms. The drop in temperature, combined with dense smog and stagnant air, traps harmful pollutants close to the ground. These days, the air quality in Delhi-NCR and Haryana has reached alarming levels, with the AQI (Air Quality Index) crossing 402, which falls under the “very poor” category.
Recent health data from 2024 revealed that in Delhi alone, more than 68,000 patients were admitted to emergency departments across six major government hospitals due to acute respiratory problems. Children, elderly individuals, and people already suffering from asthma or chronic lung diseases were the most affected.
The same air we breathe daily is now silently harming our health, making winter a difficult season for families dealing with asthma, bronchitis, and breathing issues.
At Sanjeevni Plus Hospital, Rohtak, our pulmonology and internal medicine experts see a clear rise in respiratory distress cases every winter. Understanding the link between air pollution and lung health is the first step toward protecting your family.
Why Does Air Pollution Worsen in Winter?
There are several scientific and environmental reasons:
- Temperature Inversion causes cold air near the ground to trap pollutants, preventing them from dispersing.
- Increased Vehicle Emissions in cold weather add harmful gases like carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides.
- Burning Waste & Biomass in rural and semi-urban areas releases tiny particles that degrade air quality.
- Low Wind Speed means dust, smoke and industrial emissions accumulate, creating smog.
How Pollution Affects the Lungs and Triggers Asthma
Polluted air irritates and inflames the airways. For an asthma patient, even a slight rise in pollution can cause:
- Airway inflammation leading to shortness of breath
- Mucus accumulation blocking airflow
- Reduced oxygen exchange making breathing harder
- Flare-ups and asthma attacks triggered by cold air and toxic gases
These problems increase the risk of hospitalization and long-term lung issues, including COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Common Symptoms of Pollution-Induced Breathing Problems
– Persistent coughing or throat irritation
– Wheezing or noisy breathing
– Chest tightness, especially in the morning or night
– Shortness of breath after minimal activity
– Fatigue and headaches due to low oxygen levels
If you notice these asthma symptoms, especially in children or elderly people, consult a specialist immediately.
Practical Tips to Protect Your Family from Winter Pollution
– Monitor AQI Daily and stay indoors during “Very Poor” or “Severe” days
– Use N95/N99 Masks when stepping outside
– Avoid Early Morning or Late-Night Outdoor Activities when smog is thickest
– Use Air Purifiers at home to reduce indoor pollution
– Practice Steam Inhalation to clear mucus and soothe airways
– Stay Hydrated to help flush toxins and keep airways moist
– Avoid Burning Waste or Incense indoors
– Eat Lung-Supportive Foods like vitamin C, antioxidants, and omega-3 fats
When to See a Doctor
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Reduced response to your asthma treatment
- Severe wheezing or breathlessness
At Sanjeevni Plus Hospital, Rohtak, we offer:
- Detailed lung-function tests and asthma diagnosis
- Personalized asthma treatment plans & inhaler therapy
- 24×7 Emergency & ICU care for respiratory distress
- Long-term asthma-prevention and lung-health programmes
Meet Our Specialists
Dr. Jitender Rohilla – MBBS, Dip. Cardiology
General Physician & Diabetes Doctor in Rohtak
Expert in managing chronic diseases and lung-related issues aggravated by pollution and respiratory disorders.
Dr. Sudhir Kumar (Lt. Col. Retd.) – MD (Med), DNB (Med), MNAMS
ICU Head & Critical Care | 15+ years of experience
Specialist in asthma care, emergency respiratory management and critical lung conditions in Rohtak.
Why Choose Sanjeevni Plus Hospital, Rohtak
– 14+ Years of Multi-Specialty Excellence
– NABH-Accredited Hospital – ensuring quality & safety
– Empanelled with Ayushman Bharat (AB-PMJAY) for eligible free treatment
– Tie-ups with ECHS, ESI, Haryana Govt., & private TPAs
– Cash-less treatment options for respiratory emergencies
– 24×7 Emergency & ICU support for asthma and lung-care needs
– A hospital where every patient matters — from a soldier to a senior citizen
📞 Call: 89589 68000
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Don’t let winter smog steal your breath.
Trust Sanjeevni Plus Hospital, Rohtak for expert asthma management, advanced respiratory care, and compassionate recovery this winter.