Delhi temperature drops as air quality worsens, experts advise precautions for pregnant women

Delhi recorded a season-low minimum temperature of 16.2 degrees Celsius on Monday morning, alongside an Air Quality Index reading of 178 at 10 am.

Health Risks

High air pollution poses risks during pregnancy because fine particulate matter and pollutants can irritate airways and affect maternal health. Dr Harish Verma, Director of Pulmonology at ShardaCare – Healthcity, notes that these particles can penetrate deep into lungs, enter the bloodstream, cause inflammation, and reduce oxygen delivery. Prolonged exposure during pregnancy links to risks like preterm birth and low birth weight.

Preventive Steps

Pregnant women should avoid outdoor walks, jogging, and hard physical activity near busy roads or during peak pollution hours. Checking the daily AQI before going out helps plan essential tasks when air is better. Wearing a well-fitting N95 mask outside reduces particle exposure, though it does not block everything. People also ignore indoor air, but keeping windows closed, using HEPA purifiers, and avoiding indoor smoke from incense, coils, or smoking helps.

Medical Advice

Dr Verma advises staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and keeping up with antenatal check-ups. Women with asthma must keep taking prescribed medicines and talk to a doctor if symptoms get worse. Warning signs like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or breathlessness need attention, and sudden trouble breathing requires urgent medical help. No new medicine should be started without a doctor's advice.

Context

Air quality in northern India often drops during specific seasons due to weather patterns and local emissions, making monitoring essential for vulnerable groups. Public health guidelines routinely advise high-risk populations, including pregnant women and those with respiratory issues, to limit outdoor exposure when pollution levels rise.