In recent years, Nepal, especially Kathmandu has been facing air pollution in different forms. There is no doubt that with increasing pollution, air-related health issues have been increasing too.
Outdoor air pollution (a mix of chemicals, particulate matter, and biological materials that react with each other) contributes to breathing problems, chronic diseases, increased hospitalization, and premature mortality.
What Does The Risk Look Like?
No matter where you travel, you will not be able to escape air pollution since cities and rural areas globally remain in the spectrum of areas affected by air pollution.
Exposure and concentration of pollutants can adversely affect your health.
When planning your trip, consider your health status, age, destination, length of trip, and season to help you mitigate the effects of air pollution.
Symptoms That You Have Been Affected By Air Pollution
Air pollution poses a significant threat to human health, impacting us both in the immediate and over time. Exposure to pollutants in the air can trigger a range of uncomfortable and concerning symptoms.
Short-term symptoms:
- Itchy eyes, nose, and throat
- Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath
- Chest pain, headaches, nausea
- Upper respiratory infections (bronchitis and pneumonia)
- Worsening of asthma and emphysema
Long-term effects:
- Lung cancer
- Cardiovascular disease
- Chronic respiratory illness
- Allergies
- Increased risk of heart attacks and strokes
Prevention
Comply with air pollution advisories (ask around and observe what locals are doing) and avoid strenuous activity.
If you have asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), carry an inhaler, antibiotic, and oral steroid (consult your doctor to see what is best for you).
It is recommended that older travelers get a physical exam that includes a stress and lung capacity test before departure.
Include vitamin A( eggs, carrots, broccoli, etc.), C( oranges, strawberries, etc.), D( salmon, milk, etc), and E ( Almonds, pumpkin, etc) rich foods in your diet to fight against air pollution-related health issues.
Newborns and young children should minimize exposure as much as possible or consider not traveling to areas with poor air quality. Ask your medical practitioner if a face mask is advisable for you.
For city and country air pollution levels, see the World Health Organization.
Nepal reports very high concentrations of particulate matter (PM10 – particles with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 µm) contributing to low air quality when measured in air pollution index while the causes of air pollution are numerous. Let’s identify some:
- Poor waste management
- fossil fuel burning
- Construction operations
- Vehicle emissions
- Factory pollution
- Waste burning
If you are a tourist visiting Nepal, or already enjoying your stay, Era International Hospital is your trusted healthcare partner. We offer world-class medical facilities and specialized care tailored to the needs of international visitors. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to providing you with exceptional medical treatment during your time in Nepal.
