How Can I Protect Myself And My Family From The Negative Impacts Of Air Pollution On Mental Health And Well Being? A Review By Doctors

Impact Of Air Quality On Mental Health image

Expert opinion from Dr. Anet Varghese

Doctor of Medicine (MBBS) · 1 years of experience · India

Household air pollution exposure leads to noncommunicable diseases including stroke, ischaemic heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. Tips to avoid air pollutants includes Avoid exercising outdoors when pollution levels are high. When the air is bad, walk indoors in a shopping mall or gym or use an exercise machine. Limit the amount of time your child spends playing outdoors if the air quality is unhealthy. Always avoid exercising near high-traffic areas. Even when air quality forecasts are green, the vehicles on busy highways can create high pollution levels up to one-third a mile away. Use less energy in your home. Generating electricity and other sources of energy creates air pollution. By reducing energy use, you can help improve air quality, curb greenhouse gas emissions, encourage energy independence and save money. Encourage your child’s school to reduce exposure to school bus emissions. To keep exhaust levels down, schools should not allow school buses to idle outside of their buildings.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to Impact Of Air Quality On Mental Health.

Expert opinion from Dr. Himanshu J. Vats

Doctor of Medicine (MBBS) · 1.5 years of experience · India

Here are some things you can do to protect yourself and your family from the negative impacts of air pollution on mental health and well-being: Check the air quality index (AQI): The AQI is a measure of how polluted the air is. You can check the AQI for your area online or on a weather app. Avoid going outside during peak pollution times: Peak pollution times are usually in the morning and evening. Stay indoors if air pollution levels are high: If you must go outside, wear a mask that can filter out air pollution particles. Use an air purifier in your home or workplace: Air purifiers can help to remove air pollution particles from the air. Get regular exercise: Exercise can help to improve mental health and well-being. Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is important for mental health and well-being.

→ See more questions and expert answers related to Impact Of Air Quality On Mental Health.

Expert opinion from Dr. Mayank Saxena

Doctor of Medicine (MBBS) · 1 years of experience · India

The best way to protect yourself and your family from the negative effects of air pollution is to avoid exposure to the same. This can be done by using N95 mask when outdoors and using a man made air purifier when indoors.

Disclaimer: This is for information purpose only, and should not be considered as a substitute for medical expertise. These are opinions from an external panel of individual doctors or nutritionists and not to be considered as opinion of Microsoft. Please seek professional help regarding any health conditions or concerns. Medical advice varies across region. Advice from professionals outside your region should be used at your own discretion. Or you should contact a local health professional. Learn More.