Prominent actor Hina Khan has voiced serious alarm over the dangerously declining air quality in Mumbai, stating it has begun to severely affect her daily routine and health. The celebrity, who is currently in recovery from breast cancer, took to Instagram Stories to express her distress, highlighting symptoms faced by many residents.
"What is happeningggggg…can't even breathe yaaa…makes me reduce my outdoor activities…constant coughing, it's so bad in the morning as well…" Khan wrote in her post. She joins a growing list of public figures, including actors Saiyami Kher, Dia Mirza, and comedian Vir Das, who have recently raised concerns about the city's polluted air.
Doctors Confirm a Sharp Rise in Respiratory Issues
Medical experts confirm that this is not merely a seasonal nuisance but a persistent public health emergency. Dr. Sulaiman Ladhani, Consultant Pulmonologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, reported a significant increase in patients complaining of persistent cough, chest heaviness, and breathlessness, including individuals with no prior history of lung problems.
"Persistent cough and breathlessness are warning signs, not something to just 'get used to'," Dr. Ladhani warned. He attributed this surge directly to the deteriorating urban air quality, laden with fine particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) from vehicles, construction, industrial emissions, and waste burning. These particles penetrate deep into the lungs, causing chronic irritation and symptoms.
Echoing this, Dr. Samir Garde, Director of the Dept of Pulmonology and Lung Transplant at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, identified poor air quality as a definitive cause for ongoing respiratory difficulties. Polluted air triggers inflammation in the airways, increases mucus production, and gradually impairs lung function. "Even healthy individuals may develop a dry cough, throat irritation, wheezing, or shortness of breath after prolonged exposure," Dr. Garde stated.
Why Mornings Feel Worse and Special Risks for Survivors
Many, like Hina Khan, report exacerbated symptoms in the early hours. Dr. Ladhani explained this phenomenon, noting that cooler morning temperatures, especially in winter, trap pollution closer to the ground. Combined with low wind speed, this creates a dense layer of concentrated pollutants. "People out for morning walks, visiting temples, or doing chores unknowingly inhale highly polluted air. This is why symptoms peak between 5 am and 9 am on high AQI days," he elucidated.
The situation demands extra caution for vulnerable groups. Dr. Ladhani specifically highlighted the increased risk for cancer survivors, particularly those who have undergone chemotherapy or chest radiation, as their lungs are more sensitive. "Poor air quality can worsen breathlessness, cause inflammation, and slow down recovery. For these individuals, staying away from polluted environments is essential for long-term health," he advised.
Essential Steps to Mitigate Impact and Protect Health
Doctors recommend practical daily measures to reduce exposure and safeguard lung health:
Avoid outdoor activities during peak pollution hours, especially early mornings. Reschedule exercise for midday or move it indoors on bad air days.
Wear a properly fitted N95 mask when venturing out in heavy traffic or smog.
Keep windows closed during high-traffic periods and consider using air purifiers indoors, particularly in bedrooms.
Stay well-hydrated to keep airways moist. While steam inhalation may offer short-term relief after exposure, it is not a treatment.
Both specialists emphasized that persistent coughing or breathlessness warrants a consultation with a pulmonologist for proper lung function tests and timely intervention. Taking air quality seriously is key to preventing long-term damage and ensuring better respiratory comfort daily.
