Poor air quality may affect recovered COVID-19 patients: Experts
Considering that a drop in temperature deteriorates air quality, doctors in Pune city have issued a word of caution for people suffering from lung ailments, especially those who have recovered from or are currently infected with COVID-19. According to medical experts, increased levels of pollutants in the air can also affect people suffering from disorders like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Lung fibrosis can occur post-recovery from coronavirus
"A drop in air quality makes it difficult for COPD patients to breathe. We advise them to not step out in polluted air," said Dr. Vaibhav Pandharkar, a pulmonologist. In some patients, there is the development of lung fibrosis, post-recovery from coronavirus. Coronavirus disease affects respiratory organs and its effects can be seen even after recovering from the infection.
People with comorbidities at greater risk
"People suffering from lung disorders and who have recovered from COVID-19 should take extra precautions as pollutants in the air have increased. If people with comorbidities contract coronavirus, it may cause inflammation, making it easier for the infection to invade the lungs," Dr. Pandharkar said.
Certain pollutants might enhance susceptibility to COVID-19 death outcomes
"For patients of asthma, lung fibrosis, or heart disease, the risk of death increases when they also contract the infection," Dr. Pandharkar added. Dr. Raziya Nagarwala, a cardiovascular and pulmonary physiotherapist, said people suffering from lung-related issues are vulnerable to severe COVID-19 complications. "When we breathe in pollutants, it not only affects our respiratory system but also negatively impacts our immunity," she said.
