Kolkata: A sudden rise in pollution levels post Kali Puja-Diwali led to a spurt in lung diseases, with several hospitals receiving a steady stream of patients who suffered aggravation of their asthma and COPD. Many were rushed to the emergency with severe breathing distress on Thursday and Friday night and were admitted, said hospital sources.
Toxic gases released by firecrackers, including carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide and volatile organic compounds infiltrate the lungs along with harmful particulate matter, causing lung inflammation, said experts. Those with pre-existing lung ailments like asthma, COPD, and those who suffered from pneumonia in the recent past are particularly vulnerable.
At least four patients sought treatment for flare-ups of asthma, bronchitis and COPD at Charnock Hospital between Thursday night and Saturday afternoon. "The sudden rise in emissions since Oct 31 has badly affected those with pre-existing lung ailments. So far, we have managed these patients at the OPD, but if the pollution doesn't subside, there could be more severe cases. With winter around the corner, a spurt in lung diseases is almost inevitable," said Soumya Sengupta, pulmonologist at Charnock Hospital.
BP Poddar Hospital, too, has seen a significant spurt in lung patients, with 89 visiting the OPD in the last few days. Twenty-one visited the emergency department and 12 are currently admitted for respiratory infections since Wednesday evening. "We've seen a sharp increase in patients suffering from COPD, asthma and other lung-related conditions. The primary reason behind this is firework-induced pollution," said group advisor Supriyo Chakrabarty.
This spike has been triggered by a combination of existing weather-related issues and Diwali pollution, according to BP Poddar pulmonologist Rik Banerjee. "Tiny particles from firecrackers penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravating existing conditions and triggering new ones. The dipping temperature and low humidity further weaken respiratory systems," he added.
Even though CMRI Hospital is yet to see a spurt in lung patients, it is prepared for an influx next week. "It usually takes three to four days for the lungs to react to emissions. This year, we have seen an unusually high number of lung patients since Aug. Over the last three nights, there has been an incessant bursting of firecrackers, making this Diwali the most polluting in at least five years. It is bound to have an impact," said CMRI pulmonology director Raja Dhar.
Desun Hospital has seen a sharp increase in patients suffering from respiratory problems since Thursday. "It's essential for people to take preventive measures, such as wearing masks, avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of developing lung diseases," said Sourav Datta, consultant pulmonologist at Desun.