Punjab Desk: The air quality in Delhi-NCR has once again crossed the ‘Severe’ category. According to doctors, the impact of pollution on children begins not after birth, but while they are still in the mother’s womb. Prof. Dr. Jaat from the Pediatrics Department at AIIMS New Delhi has issued a detailed warning about this growing threat.
Rising Risk for Newborns
According to pediatric specialists at AIIMS and other major hospitals, cases of respiratory illnesses in children peak every year in November. Many newborns require oxygen support and NICU care within just weeks of birth. Doctors say that toxic pollutants mixed in the air start affecting the baby during pregnancy itself.
Damage Begins Inside the Womb
Pollutants inhaled by the mother travel through the blood and reach the fetus directly. This leads to:
- Reduced oxygen supply
- Inflammation
- Disruption in organ development
As a result, babies face a higher risk of:
- Low birth weight
- Breathing difficulties after birth
- Allergies and wheezing
- Increased chances of asthma
- Developmental delays
Why Are Young Children More Vulnerable?
According to Dr. Jaat, children have smaller and developing lungs. He explained with an example:
“Just like adding chili to a smaller bowl of curd makes it much spicier, pollutants have a stronger impact on children’s lungs.”
Although the number of infections hasn’t drastically increased, symptoms are becoming more severe because:
- Their airways are narrower
- Lung capacity is lower
The most common illnesses include:
- Cold and flu
- Pneumonia
- Post-viral wheezing
- Asthma attacks
Hospitals witness a sharp rise in respiratory problems among children during high-pollution days.
Why Is Asthma Hard to Detect in Very Young Children?
Because several other conditions show similar symptoms, such as:
- Congenital airway issues
- Food aspiration
- Foreign object in airway
Seek immediate medical help if a child shows:
- Fast breathing
- Chest sounds
- Blue lips or nails
- Reduced feeding
- Lethargy or seizures
How Dangerous Are Bronchiolitis and Pneumonia?
Bronchiolitis is common in children under 2 years. It starts like a regular cold but gradually leads to difficulty in breathing. Some children may even need ICU support.
Pneumonia severity varies, but early treatment is crucial.
Are Antibiotics and Nebulizers the Right Treatment?
Doctors clarify:
- Most infections are viral, so antibiotics do not work.
- Nebulizers are often used, but
inhalers + spacers are more effective and safer for asthma-like conditions. - Always consult a pediatrician before starting any medication.
Are Steroid Inhalers Harmful for Children?
“No,” say doctors.
Steroid inhalers prescribed for asthma are safe when used under medical supervision.
Only misuse or overuse can cause harm.
How to Protect Children in the Long Term?
- Exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months
- Timely vaccinations
- Reduce exposure to outdoor pollution
- Avoid self-medication
- Consult doctors promptly
- Use indoor air purifiers (limited but helpful)
Common Misconceptions Among Parents
- “Children do not get asthma”
- “Inhalers are addictive”
- “Steroids always cause harm”
- “Every illness needs an antibiotic”
- “Self-medication is safe”
Demand for Strong Action
Doctors emphasize that timely medical guidance can save children’s lives. Medical experts are urging the government to take strict measures, including:
- Clean fuel usage
- Strong control over industrial emissions
- Robust environmental policies
Experts warn that Delhi’s worsening air pollution is no longer just an environmental issue, but a direct health crisis for newborns and children.
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