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With Delhi’s post-Diwali smog worsening, experts warn that indoor air can be just as harmful. Here are five doctor-approved ways to breathe safer at home.
Urban and indoor pollution harm respiratory health across all ages.
Following the festive season, Delhi’s air quality has plunged to hazardous levels, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 500 in several areas and averaging around 325 citywide marking the worst post-Diwali spike in five years. The toxic combination of firecracker emissions, crop residue burning in neighbouring states, and stagnant weather conditions has pushed pollution to alarming highs. Consequently, hospitals are witnessing a sharp surge in respiratory complaints, including asthma attacks, wheezing, shortness of breath, sore throats, and chest congestion particularly among children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions.
While outdoor air quality remains largely beyond individual control, what we can control is the quality of the air we breathe indoors, where people spend nearly 90% of their time. To protect yourself and your loved ones during this period, Dr. Avi Kumar, Senior Consultant – Pulmonology, Fortis Okhla, recommends five simple yet effective ways to minimize indoor pollution exposure.
1. Keep doors and windows closed during peak pollution hours
Restricting the entry of polluted outdoor air is the first step toward cleaner indoor air. Keep doors and windows tightly shut, especially during early mornings and late evenings when smog concentration is highest. For households with young children, senior citizens, or individuals with asthma or chronic lung conditions, this measure is crucial to prevent respiratory irritation and allergic flare-ups. You may open windows briefly during the afternoon when pollution levels tend to dip.
2. Use high-efficiency air purifiers
A certified air purifier with a HEPA filter can significantly reduce indoor particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). Run purifiers continuously in commonly used areas such as bedrooms and living rooms, especially at night when pollutants tend to accumulate. Remember to replace filters periodically, as clogged filters reduce efficiency and may even recirculate trapped pollutants.
3. Avoid indoor activities that worsen air quality
Indoor pollution can increase from seemingly harmless activities such as burning candles or incense sticks, or using wood, coal, or kerosene stoves. These release harmful gases and fine particles. Opt for electric or battery-operated alternatives, and always ensure adequate ventilation while cooking, particularly when using gas stoves. Reducing these internal sources of emissions plays a key role in maintaining cleaner indoor air.
4. Maintain optimal indoor humidity
Overly dry air can irritate the nose, throat, and airways, worsening respiratory symptoms. Use a humidifier to maintain humidity levels between 30–50%, or bring home air-purifying indoor plants like peace lilies and spider plants. Balanced humidity not only keeps the airways comfortable but also helps dust particles settle faster, reducing the risk of inhalation.
5. Practice hygiene and personal protection
Pollutants tend to settle on indoor surfaces. Regular wet mopping, dusting with damp cloths, and washing hands and face after outdoor exposure can help reduce indoor dust and allergen buildup. People with asthma, COPD, or low immunity should wear N95 masks even for short outdoor visits. Additionally, showering before bedtime can prevent outdoor pollutants from transferring onto bedding.
By following these doctor-approved precautions, Delhi residents can minimize their exposure to harmful pollutants, reduce respiratory distress, and create a safer indoor environment for their families during the city’s high-pollution period.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
October 27, 2025, 13:35 IST
