Every winter, Delhi is blanketed with thick smog, turning the city’s skyline grey. While it may seem like a seasonal nuisance, the health risks go far beyond temporary coughing or difficulty breathing. Doctors warn that smog is a silent health threat, affecting not only the lungs but also the heart, brain, skin, eyes, and even the gut.
Dr Manav Manchanda, Director & Head of Respiratory, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at Asian Hospital, explains how fine particulate matter from pollution penetrates deep into the body and what steps people can take to reduce its harmful effects.
“Delhi’s heavy smog is not just an inconvenience; it is a silent killer,” says Dr Manchanda. The tiny particles in smog, known as PM2.5 and PM10, enter the lungs deeply, causing inflammation and reducing lung function over time. This increases the risk of respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis, asthma attacks, and other lung diseases.
But smog doesn’t stop at the lungs. When these fine particles enter the bloodstream, they can cause systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, which harm blood vessels and the heart. Long-term exposure to air pollution is linked to heart diseases, high blood pressure, and even strokes.
The brain is also affected. Studies show that chronic pollution exposure may lead to memory problems, cognitive decline, and a higher risk of conditions like dementia. Children are especially vulnerable because their lungs and brains are still developing. Pregnant women are also at risk, as pollution can harm fetal growth and increase pregnancy complications.
Air pollution doesn’t only affect the organs we breathe with. “Eyes, skin, and even the digestive system are impacted,” explains Dr Manchanda. Common effects include eye irritation, dryness, and allergic reactions. Skin can age faster and conditions like eczema or dermatitis may worsen due to pollution.
Surprisingly, smog can also affect gut health. The toxins inhaled can disrupt the gut microbiota—the helpful bacteria that support digestion and immunity. This disruption may cause digestive issues and weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to illness.
While the smog season in Delhi can feel unavoidable, there are practical steps people can take to reduce its impact:
Wear high-quality N95 masks when stepping outdoors.
Use air purifiers at home and workplaces.
Limit outdoor activity during peak pollution hours.
Eat antioxidant-rich foods such as berries, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and nuts to fight oxidative stress.
Schedule regular health check-ups, especially if you have chronic conditions like asthma or heart disease.
Dr Manchanda emphasizes that awareness is the first step. Understanding that smog harms more than just the lungs can motivate people to take preventive measures. Simple actions in daily life can help reduce long-term health damage.
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The air pollution in Delhi is slow, silent, and affects the entire body. From lungs and heart to brain, skin, eyes, and gut, the impact is far-reaching. While it may not always be visible, the damage accumulates over time, making it important for residents to stay informed and protect themselves.
Awareness and proactive lifestyle changes—like using masks, purifiers, and eating healthily—can help blunt the effects of smog. By taking precautions, Delhi residents can reduce the long-term risks and safeguard their overall health during the pollution-heavy months.
In short, smog is more than a seasonal nuisance; it is a serious public health concern that requires both individual care and wider systemic action to minimize its harmful impact.
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