Holi, the festival of colours, is here, and people are all set to celebrate it with their loved ones. Though the occasion is auspicious and the moment joyful, asthmatic patients should take extra care during this time.
Asthma is a lung condition characterised by narrowing, swelling, and muscle tightening around the airways, leading to breathing difficulties, coughing, and chest pain. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it affected 26.2 crore people in 2019 and caused 4.55 lakh deaths.
Ahead of Holi celebrations, Dr Kutty Sharada Vinod, Pulmonologist, Karuna Hospital, Delhi, shares how Holi colours can impact our respiratory health and what people with asthma can do to protect themselves.
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How Holi Colours Affect Health?
Holi colours are not just harmless pigments; they often contain heavy metals, broken glass fragments, chemicals, and pesticides, says Dr Vinod.
According to her, heavy metals like lead can cause disabilities and are particularly dangerous for children. Chromium, another common component, can lead to bronchitis, asthma, and allergies, whereas mercury present in the colours can impact kidney, liver, and foetal health, she adds.
Dr Vinod says that the harmful components in the Holi colours can pose serious threats to your respiratory system, leading to a range of health issues.
A 2016 study published in the Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology even found that Holi colour powders contained very small particles that could be inhaled deeply.
In lab experiments, these powders caused immune system cells to overreact and release inflammatory chemicals, which could explain why some people experience skin irritation, eye problems, and breathing difficulties after Holi celebrations, the researchers noted.
Protective Measures Asthma Patients Should Take
Here are some measures people with asthma can take to prevent attacks or the worsening of symptoms:
Choose natural colours: Use natural and organic colours made from ingredients like turmeric, rose powder, beetroot, and other plant-based materials. According to Dr Vinod, synthetic colours contain chemicals that can irritate the respiratory system and trigger asthma symptoms. By using natural colours, you reduce the risk of respiratory distress while still enjoying the festive spirit of Holi, she says.
Wear a mask: Before venturing out to play Holi, ensure you wear a mask or scarf that covers your mouth and nose. Use a breathable material to prevent discomfort while effectively blocking airborne particles from entering your respiratory passages.
Avoid smoke and pollution: Dr Vinod says that Holi festivities often include bonfires and the burning of Holika effigies, which can release smoke and pollutants into the air. If possible, stay indoors during these events to reduce exposure to smoke, she recommends.
Keep your inhalers handy: Asthma patients should always carry their inhalers with them, even if they feel well. The excitement and physical activity involved in playing Holi can sometimes lead to sudden asthma symptoms. It is therefore best to be prepared.
Also Read: Inhalers Are Best For Asthma Management, Know Why Doctors Vouch For Them
Monitor children with asthma: If your child has asthma, closely supervise their Holi activities. Ensure they use natural colours, avoid playing near smoke or bonfires, and have their inhaler readily available.
Maintain a balanced diet: During this celebratory day, do not compromise on your diet. Consume a nutritious and balanced diet that can contribute to overall respiratory health. Include foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to support lung function and reduce inflammation.
Take medications as directed: Continue taking your prescribed asthma medications as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you're symptom-free. Long-term control medications help prevent asthma attacks and manage underlying inflammation in the airways, says Dr Vinod.
Conclusion
Holi is a joyous festival that calls for great celebrations. However, people with asthma should be cautious during this time. Ensure that you do not strain your airways by breathing in too many colours. Make sure you choose natural, organic colours instead of synthetic colours that contain toxic chemicals. Most importantly, keep your inhalers handy so that you can use them in case you have a sudden asthma attack.