Winter Smog's Deadly Grip: How Pollution Worsens Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs)

• Winter smog traps pollutants, severely impacting individuals with Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILDs) due to compromised lung tissue.
• Pollutants like particulate matter penetrate deep into ILD patients' already damaged lungs, worsening breathlessness, cough, and fatigue.
• Exposure increases acute exacerbations, leading to hospitalizations and accelerating lung fibrosis, as explained by Dr Abhijeet Singh, ShardaCare Healthcity.
• Winter pollution weakens lung defenses, making ILD patients more susceptible to severe respiratory infections.
• Protective measures include monitoring AQI, avoiding peak pollution, wearing N95 masks, using air purifiers, and adhering to medications and vaccinations.

Why It Matters: Winter smog poses a severe threat to ILD patients; awareness and protective measures are crucial.