Do you know’ How harmful are firecrackers for lung health ?’ We don’t realize that inhaling the smoke and chemicals from fireworks and firecrackers can lead to respiratory problems, including lung diseases. Burning firecrackers release pollutants into the air, which lead to the formation of harmful ozone. This burning of crackers can cause lung problems and worsen conditions like *Asthma, Bronchitis, Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) * , and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
The air quality index(AQI) significantly worsens during Diwali festivities. Diwali firecracker emissions consist mainly of harmful pollutants like sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter—PM2.5 and PM10-, lead, and barium, leading to air pollution. Once in the atmosphere, these combine with other atmospheric components to form tropospheric ozone or ground-level ozone. The latter, in stark contrast to ozone in the stratosphere serving as a protective layer outside, is a marked respiratory irritant.
Exposure to these pollutants, especially in high concentrations during fireworks displays, can have adverse effects on respiratory health, especially for people who have pre-existing respiratory conditions. Even the so-called “green firecrackers” emit smog and particulate matter which could be equally hazardous, especially in vulnerable populations.
Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10):
As these particles are small and easily inhalable, they cause inflammation and irritation of the trachea and respiratory bronchi. Consecutively, some acute effects might lead to increased hospital admissions due to asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases.
The fireworks fumes, particularly nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds, triggered a reaction when exposed to sunlight, forming “bad ozone” . It causes the respiratory tract to inflame and to increase lung infection risk among kids, the elderly, and those with lung issues.
Who should be cautious?
Children, elderly, people with preexisting lung problems and health diseases.
Please wear mask if you are having pre-existing lung problem. Celebrate Diwali responsibly. Avoid firecrackers.
Dr. Pravin Taware
Pulmonologist & Sleep Specialist
Dr. Aditi Shah
Allergologist & Pulmonologist
Aeris Clinic of Allergy chest and Sleep Care, Matunga East
