The Air Quality Index (AQI)  in Mumbai has been considerably poor for the past few weeks. Further, the onset of winter and Diwali pollution from crackers is going to exacerbate the condition. In such times, it becomes necessary to brace yourself and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from health conditions that are likely to arise. To address this issue and help you prevent falling sick, we roped in two Mumbai-based health experts who answer relevant questions. 
  
Dr Harish Chafle, pulmonology and critical care, Global Hospitals Parel Mumbai says, “During Diwali, the air gets contaminated with a myriad of chemicals that are released from bursting crackers. These fireworks are known to release harmful substances that can have detrimental effects on both the environment and human health.”  
  
He adds, “The poor Air Quality Index (AQI) prevalent in Mumbai can exacerbate Diwali pollution to alarming levels. Diwali involves the bursting of firecrackers that release harmful pollutants into the air.” 
  
One of the most dangerous chemicals emitted by firecrackers is sulphur dioxide (SO2). This toxic gas is released when crackers containing sulphur compounds explode. SO2 can have severe respiratory effects, causing irritation in the eyes and throat, and exacerbating conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.  
  
Another hazardous chemical commonly found after Diwali celebrations is nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a harmful gas produced when explosives generate high temperatures. Exposure to NO2 can lead to respiratory problems like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. 

Adding to this, Dr Sumeet Singhania, consultant, pulmonary medicine, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai says, “Any kind of air pollution is harmful to health and the commonest conditions which are linked to air pollution are related to the lungs. There is absolutely no doubt, that the deteriorating air quality in the city is getting worse by the day. However, pollution from Diwali cannot be held as the only cause.”  
  
List common health issues that people are prone to developing during Diwali due to air pollution.
  
Chafle: One common health issue that arises during this time is respiratory problems, especially among those with pre-existing conditions such as asthma or bronchitis. The smoke and toxic chemicals released by fireworks can cause irritation in the respiratory tract, leading to coughing, wheezing and difficulty in breathing. 
  
Eyes are also affected during Diwali. The bursting of firecrackers releases pollutants like sulfur dioxide, heavy metals, and fine particulate matter into the air which can enter our eyes. These pollutants cause redness, itching, watering of the eyes, and even conjunctivitis in some cases.