Delhi Doctor Warns How Cold Air and Pollution Together Harm Lungs

As winter arrives, many parts of northern India, especially Delhi, face a dangerous situation. The air becomes filled with heavy pollution, and the temperature drops quickly. This mix of cold air and dirty air can seriously harm the lungs. Dr. Sushil Kumar Upadhyay, a pulmonologist from New Delhi, explains that this combination creates what doctors call “cold-pollution respiratory stress.” It means the lungs struggle to breathe clean air, leading to cough, chest tightness, and breathing problems.

Dr. Upadhyay explains that cold air makes the airways inside the lungs narrow. At the same time, pollution adds harmful particles that enter the lungs and cause swelling and irritation. When these two conditions happen together, the lungs have to work much harder to breathe. People with asthma, COPD, weak lungs, or low immunity are at greater risk.

During winter, the air becomes still, and pollution from vehicles, factories, burning waste, and dust stays close to the ground. Smog becomes thicker, and people breathe in these harmful particles without even realizing it. This is why many people in Delhi notice their cough gets worse in winter, breathing feels heavy, or chest pain increases.

Cold-pollution respiratory stress does not only affect older people. Children, teenagers, and even healthy adults can face problems because they inhale this polluted air every day. The body finds it harder to get enough oxygen, which may cause tiredness, dizziness, or long-lasting lung damage if ignored.

Dr. Upadhyay also points to a World Health Organization (WHO) report that says air pollution causes nearly 6.7 million premature deaths globally each year. Many of these deaths happen because of lung and heart problems caused by polluted air.

He advises people to take simple steps to protect themselves during winter:

Wear a good-quality mask (N95 or KN95) when stepping outside.

Avoid early morning walks when pollution is at its highest.

Keep windows closed on days with very high smog.

Drink warm fluids to soothe the throat and help breathing.

Use air purifiers indoors if possible.

Consult a doctor if cough or breathing issues continue for more than a few days.

If someone has asthma or another lung condition, they should not stop their regular medicines without a doctor’s advice. Paying attention to early signs can prevent serious problems later.

The doctor’s message is clear: winter in Delhi is not just about cold weather. It is a season where the air itself becomes a risk. Protecting the lungs is important because once lung damage happens, it is very difficult to reverse. With awareness and simple daily care, people can keep their respiratory health safe during the winter months.