Bangalore: Bursting crackers could be fun, but it could also lead to a host of allergic reactions that could be hazardous if neglected. Doctors say that there is an increase by 10-20 per cent in the out-patient department during the festival season because of an increase in pollen and dust in the air following bursting of crackers.
Doctors caution people to avoid morning walks during the festive season. Dr Ravindra Mehta, Senior consultant, pulmonologist and ICU specialist, Apollo Hospital, told Bangalore Mirror: “This is a problem after every Diwali. We advise patients who have a chronic problem to reduce exposure and take precautions, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Young people are often more vulnerable to this. People who have a chronic lung disease must be extra cautious. Excessive smoke from the puja can contribute to these allergies.”
Bursting of crackers leads to an increase of smoke and sulphur-di-oxide. Pulmonologist Dr H Paramesh said, “There could be constant burning of the eyes because of the increased pollution. Chronic sinusitis could also see an increase. We have already educated our asthma patients to take medicines half an hour before bursting crackers so that they do not have any adverse effects. Those who are prone to allergies are also advised to take medications for those three days.”
Even people with normal lungs could be prone to long-term infections. Dr Murali Mohan, pulmonologist, Narayana Health City, says, “People with normal lungs could develop a problem of reactive airways dysfunction. If they are exposed to smoke with A complex mixture, it could lead to cough and breathlessness, which can last for a long time and can be very serious. One has to be very careful even while choosing crackers as some, like snake crackers, emit more smoke than others, This could affect anyone, irrespective of all age groups.”
