Effect of pollution on joints
Increased pollution has become a major threat to health. Especially in Delhi-NCR the situation is worse. It is a matter of concern that pollution is now affecting bones and joints as well. Small particles (PM2.5) present in polluted air are affecting even the immune system of the body and due to this people are facing problems like rheumatoid arthritis, swelling in joints, weakness of bones. For those who already have these problems, their problems have increased even more. This claim has been made in a study of AIIMS New Delhi.
According to Dr. Uma Kumar, HOD in the Department of Rheumatology at AIIMS Delhi, many types of diseases occur due to malfunction in the immune system of the body. One of these diseases is rheumatoid arthritis. Increased pollution is increasing the risk of this disease. pollution Due to this the problem of rheumatoid arthritis is increasing.
Dr. Kumar said that the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis patients increase every year in winter in Delhi. Patients whose condition remains stable throughout the year, their symptoms increase during this period. This pattern is being seen for the last several years. One reason for this could be increased pollution in winter.
How does pollution attack joints?
Dr. Uma explains that when a person breathes, the small particles present in pollution i.e. PM 2.5 enter the blood through the lungs. They then circulate throughout the body and increase oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. It also affects the joints. Pollution is also affecting the immune system. Due to this, the immune system is attacking its own good cells and tissues, increasing the risk of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Especially those people who are already suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Who is at greater risk?
elderly
women
Rheumatoid arthritis patients
people with asthma/allergies
What are the symptoms of bone disease
joint pain
difficulty in walking
back pain while bending
being tired
how to avoid pollution
Do not go for morning walk as long as pollution is high.
wear a mask
Install air purifier in home
take care of your diet