Rising pollution and temperatures are deteriorating air quality, affecting the health of your nasal and respiratory system.
Big changes in temperatures, climate and rising pollution levels around us are taking a huge toll on our health and wellbeing. According to experts, more people are experiencing more than just discomfort from extreme heat or cold. As well as being recognized as a simple factor aggravating different types of diseases, climate change is now also a growing factor in a range of ear, nose and throat (NCD) problems among people of all ages.
According to experts, this is leading to longer allergy seasons, along with worsening asthma conditions and sinus infections. “Many people may not realize that these environmental changes are behind the worsening of their symptoms.” Dr Sanjay Sachdeva, Senior ENT Consultant at HearClear India, told Times Now. Dr Sachdeva said there is an intricate link between climate change and deteriorating ENT health. “Rising temperatures are responsible for changes in seasonal patterns, precipitation, humidity and rising carbon dioxide levels,” he added.
What are the side effects of climate change in otorhinolaryngology?
Experts say increased pollution is deteriorating air quality and seriously affecting the health of the respiratory system, including the nasal passages, sinuses and throat. Environmental pollutants such as particulate matter, allergens, and airborne irritants exacerbate allergies, trigger asthma attacks, and contribute to chronic sinusitis.
“Along with this, the increasing incidence of air pollution and microbial contamination interfere with the functioning of the immune system. All the factors together deteriorate air quality and increase the concentration of particles in the air,” said Dr Vivek Kumar Pathak, Senior Consultant ENT, HearClear.
According to Dr. Pathak, rising temperatures and changes in rainfall and humidity patterns also provide ideal conditions for mold growth indoors and outdoors. “Promoting the growth of microscopic arthropods, commonly known as dust mites, increases cases of fungal attacks,” he added.
The worsening of respiratory conditions magnifies allergic reactions accompanied by cases of inflammation in the affected person. Doctors say climate change can affect your hearing due to changes in atmospheric pressure, which affects the balance system of the inner ear, causing dizziness, vertigo and other balance problems.
Lifestyle factors add to ENT conditions.
Experts also blame lifestyle choices that influence ENT health on factors such as smoking, poor nutrition and lack of physical activity, which weaken the immune system and increase susceptibility to infections.
Preventive measures to take care of your ear, nose and throat
According to experts, to safeguard ENT health, it is necessary to promote good indoor air quality, in addition to hygiene and cleanliness. Some tips include:
- Indoor air quality measures such as ventilation, air filtration and allergen control.
- Keep your ears dry and maintain good ear hygiene to reduce the risk of infections.
- Do not use too many earplugs when doing water-related activities.
- Always keep your nasal passages clean to breathe easily, prevent infections and reduce allergy symptoms.
- Eat a diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and flax seeds, which help strengthen your immunity levels and maintain proper blood circulation.
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