Yesterday (30th), Hong Kong air pollution in some areas the air quality index reached to 10, the health risks belong to "very high" level, the situation is expected to continue for several days. Dr. Cheng, a family doctor, explained during serious air pollution, the air particulates will directly enter the respiratory tract. This will cause tighten of airway muscle, phlegm and coughing if people have sensitive airway and asthma.
Source: The Wall Street Journal
Asthma and cardiovascular disease is easy to occur
Cheng also said that, affected by air pollution, heart disease and cardiovascular disease will be easier to occur due to lower blood oxygen. In addition, air particulates irritate the nasal membrane and eye mask, induced allergic rhinitis and eye irritation. Cheng reminds, children with frequent respiration rate, as well as the elderly with respiratory system and mucous membranes, are vulnerable to the bad air quality.
Doctor: reduce outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise
Cheng recommended children, the elderly and patients with diseases related to minimize outdoor activities when air pollution is serious. If they really need to go to places with serious air pollution such as Central and Causeway Bay, they should wear masks; the patient should be ready his or her medication.
As for the students to meet the new semester, Cheng thinks they can go to school with a mask, also urged them to go home as soon as possible after school. Doctor reminds us not to have strenuous exercise outdoors, like “playing football” in the park after school.
In addition, the government also reminded that the health effects of air pollutants vary, anyone with enquiries should consult medical advice as soon as possible. The public may visit the CHP website. To get the latest air quality health index information, please visit the EPA website or call the hotline 28278541.
Source: hk01