Mumbai sees rise in respiratory illnesses as air quality declines

Symptoms like persistent coughing, sore throat and nasal congestion are lingering well beyond the usual recovery period, with some patients experiencing these effects for up to three weeks. Dr. Swapnil Mehta, a pulmonologist at Hiranandani Hospital, attributes this to mutated strains of respiratory viruses. “Certain respiratory viruses (like RSV, rhinovirus, and adenovirus) have mutated, potentially leading to more intense and prolonged symptoms. Variants of the common cold and flu are causing longer-lasting coughs, as the body takes longer to recover,” he said.

This trend is evident not only in private hospitals but also in public healthcare facilities, where patient volumes have increased. The Indian Express checked with doctors in KEM and Sion hospitals. “We’ve observed a 20% rise in respiratory complaints, largely due to seasonal changes and higher pollution levels,” reported Dr. Mohan Joshi, Dean of Sion Hospital.

“Our patients range from young children with developing lungs to elderly individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis, who are presenting with intensified symptoms such as prolonged cough, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.”

Outpatient visits have also surged, with many patients requiring extended treatment and additional medications due to prolonged recovery. “Patients are finding it harder to recover with typical treatments, increasing their dependence on medical support,” added Dr. Saseedharan.

A common post-viral symptom is an extended cough, which experts attribute to increased respiratory tract sensitivity following an infection. Dr Lancelot Pinto, epidemiologist and pulmonologist at Hinduja Hospital, said, “Post-viral coughs have always been prolonged, because viruses leave the tubes of the lungs sensitive, or hyperreactive. Such sensitive lungs would need time to heal, but would equally importantly need to not be constantly irritated. We have noticed that post viral coughs tend to be prolonged in those who smoke.”

The impact of rising air pollution on respiratory health is well-documented, particularly for individuals with pre-existing conditions. Dr. Aklesh Tandekar, Head Consultant of Critical Care at Wockhardt Hospitals, explained, “Pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are significant contributors, causing lung irritation, airway inflammation, worsening of existing respiratory conditions, and increased susceptibility to infections. Most individuals also show elevated allergic responses.”

As the festive season approaches, doctors are urging preventive measures such as wearing masks, limiting outdoor activities, and using prescribed inhalers to protect vulnerable populations. “Having poor air quality is definitely likely to hamper healing, and it comes as no surprise that such coughs tend to be most prolonged in the months when the air is most polluted. One needs to avoid irritants by wearing masks when feasible, limit exposures to polluted settings, and use inhalers, when prescribed especially at this time of the year, when smog tends to aggravate respiratory symptoms,” said Dr Pinto.