Double Trouble: How Monsoon Viruses and Rising Pollution Are Choking Our Lungs

We eagerly wait for the monsoon after harsh summers in the hope of getting some relief, but often forget about the potential problems that come along. This year, we witnessed heavy rainfall and flash floods due to incessant rains in different parts of the country. While the rains have stopped and monsoon is about to bid adieu, the rising cases of viral infections, monsoon viruses, respiratory infections, etc. have grappled a large population. To add to it, rising air pollution has made things worse. Have you ever wondered why most people fall sick in these 2-3 months after the monsoon? Read this article as we reached out to a Bronchoscopist to understand the causes and precautions.

“As compared to last year, there has been a slight increase in the number of patients complaining of respiratory discomfort this year. Viral infections during monsoons have been on the rise, and influenza cases are also higher. As a result, respiratory cases have increased, and many of these are people who had previously contracted Covid or whose lungs are already damaged,” shares Dr Sudhir Kr. Gupta, Senior Consultant (Chest Physician & Bronchoscopist), Kailash Hospital, Noida.

Why does the monsoon affect lung health?

According to the World Health Organization, air during the monsoon contains moisture. This does feel cool and refreshing but high moisture content leads to high humidity which is bad for our respiratory system. Exposing yourself to a humid environment can harm your lungs and worsen your respiratory functions, especially if you have an existing condition.

Let’s look at some reasons why monsoon affects the lungs:

Increased Humidity Attracts Pollutants and Allergens

Have you wondered why you tend to sneeze or catch an allergy during and right after monsoons? Or why does your asthma trigger during the humid weather? According to a study published in NCBI, long-term exposure to dust can trigger and worsen respiratory health symptoms. Humid weather creates a perfect breeding ground for allergens such as mold spores, dust mites and bacteria. When a person inhales any of these allergens, it can irritate the respiratory tract which can trigger asthma and other allergic reactions.

Also Read: What Is Allergic Asthma? Triggers, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

Fungal and Mold Growth Indoors

Due to moisture and dampness during the rainy season, fungal growth becomes common in our homes. Poor ventilation adds to the issue. In addition to this, mold spores in the air can cause wheezing, coughing and asthma attacks in the vulnerable group that mainly consists of children and the elderly.

Sudden Temperature Changes

Frequent transitions between cool and moist to warm air is another troubling factor. For example, moving from air-conditioned, closed spaces to humid outdoors causes a sudden change in temperature. This can put your respiratory system into shock, which then triggers respiratory symptoms, particularly for asthma and bronchitis patients.

Common Respiratory Problems During Monsoon

Here are some of the common lung and respiratory issues that are prevalent during monsoons:

• Asthma: If you have asthma, expect flare-ups during monsoon. The reason behind this is moist air, which triggers bronchial asthma.
• Bronchitis: Humidity and moisture in the air can cause inflammation by irritating the bronchial tubes.
• Allergic rhinitis: Due to exposure to dust, pollens, mold and other allergens, sneezing, coughing and a runny nose are common triggers.
• Respiratory infections: If you are prone to respiratory issues, monsoons can increase the risk of pneumonia and sinusitis due to viral and bacterial growth.

Also Read: Monsoon Health & Hygiene Tips for Toddlers: A Doctor's Guide

According to Dr Sudhir Kr. Gupta. “In the coming time, as observed, pollution levels start to rise after October and remain high for the next four to five months. This leads to an increase in asthma and COPD cases. At the same time, the weather conditions are highly favorable for the spread of viral infections. Viruses spread more rapidly during this season, and together with pollution, both factors cause greater health issues. I believe that this year, due to these combined reasons, the number of patients will rise further, and they will face more complications.”

Tips to Prevent Respiratory Problems in Monsoon

The following precautionary measures to prevent respiratory problems are advised by Dr Sudhir Kr. Gupta:

• Wear a mask when going out in crowded or polluted places.
• Use an air purifier at home to reduce indoor pollution.
• Stay indoors during peak pollution hours (especially mornings and evenings).
• Keep windows closed on days with high AQI levels.
• Maintain proper hand hygiene and avoid close contact with people showing symptoms of infection.

Final Word

Apart from the precautions as listed above, you must also get flu vaccinations from time to time, and follow a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, along with adequate water intake and regular exercise to strengthen immunity.