Impact Of Pollution On Health
Explore the serious impact of pollution on health. Learn how air, water, and noise pollution contribute to respiratory issues, heart disease, and other chronic conditions, affecting overall well-being.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 29th Jul, 2025
Pollution is a growing concern worldwide, affecting the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the environment we live in. While it may seem like an environmental issue, pollution has serious consequences for our health. From respiratory problems to heart disease, pollution can silently harm our bodies in many ways.
This article will help you understand how pollution affects your health, what symptoms to watch for, and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones.
How Does Pollution Affect Your Health?
Pollution comes in different forms—air pollution, water pollution, noise pollution, and soil contamination. Each type can have harmful effects on the body.
1. Air Pollution and Respiratory Problems
Air pollution contains tiny particles (PM2.5 and PM10), gases (like nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide), and toxins that enter our lungs when we breathe. Over time, this can lead to:
- Asthma and allergies: Pollution irritates the airways, making breathing difficult.
- Chronic bronchitis: Long-term exposure can cause persistent coughing and mucus production.
- Lung cancer: Harmful chemicals in polluted air increase cancer risks.
2. Heart and Blood Vessel Damage
Tiny pollutants can enter the bloodstream, leading to:
- High blood pressure: Pollutants cause inflammation, making the heart work harder.
- Heart attacks and strokes: Long-term exposure increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
3. Water Pollution and Digestive Issues
- Contaminated water can carry bacteria, heavy metals (like lead and arsenic), and chemicals, causing:
- Diarrhoea and stomach infections: Harmful microbes in water lead to food poisoning.
- Liver and kidney damage: Toxins accumulate in the body over time.
4. Noise Pollution and Mental Health
- Constant exposure to loud noises (traffic, construction) can lead to:
- Stress and anxiety: Disrupted sleep and constant noise increase cortisol (stress hormone).
- Hearing loss: Prolonged exposure damages the ears.
5. Skin and Eye Problems
Polluted air and water can cause:
- Skin allergies and rashes: Chemicals irritate the skin.
- Dry eyes and infections: Dust and smoke cause redness and irritation.
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Who Is Most at Risk?
- While pollution affects everyone, some groups are more vulnerable:
- Children: Their developing lungs and immune systems are more sensitive.
- Elderly people: Weaker immunity makes them prone to infections.
- People with existing illnesses: Asthma, heart disease, or diabetes can worsen.
- Pregnant women: Pollution can affect fetal development.
How Can You Protect Yourself?
While we can’t completely avoid pollution, small changes can reduce its impact on your health.
1. Reduce Exposure to Air Pollution
- Check air quality: Use apps like AQI (Air Quality Index) to avoid outdoor activities when pollution is high.
- Wear masks: N95 masks filter out harmful particles.
- Keep indoor air clean: Use air purifiers, avoid smoking indoors, and keep windows closed on high-pollution days.
- Add indoor plants: Plants like aloe vera and spider plants naturally purify the air.
2. Drink Safe Water
- Use water filters: RO or UV filters remove harmful contaminants.
- Boil water: If unsure about purity, boiling kills bacteria.
- Avoid plastic bottles: Store water in glass or steel containers to reduce chemical exposure.
3. Eat a Healthy Diet
Antioxidant-rich foods: Fruits (berries, oranges) and vegetables (spinach, carrots) help fight pollution-induced damage.
Stay hydrated: Water flushes out toxins.
Avoid street food in polluted areas: Contaminated air can settle on food.
4. Exercise Safely
- Avoid outdoor workouts in high-pollution areas: Opt for indoor exercises like yoga or gym workouts.
- Walk in parks, not near traffic: Greenery filters air better than busy roads.
5. Protect Your Skin and Eyes
- Wash your face often: Removes pollutants stuck to the skin.
- Use sunscreen and moisturiser: Protects against UV rays and pollution damage.
- Wear sunglasses: Shields eyes from dust and smoke.
When Should You See a Doctor?
If you experience:
- Persistent coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Frequent headaches or dizziness
- Unexplained skin rashes or allergies
- Digestive issues after consuming water/food
- It’s best to consult a doctor. Early detection can prevent long-term damage.
Conclusion
Pollution is a serious health threat, but awareness and small lifestyle changes can make a big difference. If you or a loved one is experiencing health issues due to pollution, don’t ignore the symptoms.
Book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 to get personalised advice and treatment. You can also schedule tests to check for pollution-related health risks.
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Dr. Indrajit Das
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
4 Years • "MD (Internal medicine) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2018-2021) MD (Pathology) : Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Guwahati (2012-2015) MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) : Silchar Medical College, Assam (2003-2008) "
Guwahati
Apollo Excelcare Hospital, Guwahati
Dr. V K Aneja
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Dr. Mira Govindarajan
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Dr. Jagadeesh C
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20 Years • MBBS, MD, FRCP, FCCP
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2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
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