Winter Smog's Lingering Threat: Lungs Suffer Long After Haze Clears

• Doctors warn that lung damage from winter smog persists long after pollution levels improve, causing inflammation and impaired function.
• Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) penetrates deep into lungs, triggering persistent inflammation and oxidative stress, not easily reversible.
• Children are at higher risk due to faster breathing and more outdoor time, leading to chronic cough, wheezing, and impaired lung development.
• Adults, even without prior lung disease, can experience persistent cough, chest tightness, and increased susceptibility to infections.
• Repeated seasonal exposure to smog accumulates inflammatory load, reducing lung reserve and increasing risk of chronic respiratory diseases.

Why It Matters: Winter smog inflicts lasting lung damage, with effects persisting for months, especially in children and vulnerable adults.