Heavy metals coloring fireworks may cause respiratory problems

Fireworks may be colorful, but the chemicals used to make the magic happen can cause a host of diseases—and in some cases, even death.

Pulmunologist Dr. Maricar Limpin explained on Unang Hirit's (UH) Dec. 31 episode that toxic heavy metals that give fireworks their vibrant colors such as aluminum, barium, and lithium, are released in the fumes of the pyrotechnics. If inhaled, these chemicals will accumulate in the lungs and cause respiratory diseases.

"Ang pinaka-problema talaga natin ay para doon sa mga taong may mga respiratory problems na katulad ng hika o Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), kapag na-expose tayo sa mga chemicals na ito na talagang nakaka-irita ng daanan ng paghinga," said Limpin.

In a memo for their Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction (APIR) Campaign, the Department of Health (DOH) stated that suspended particulate matters such as the aforementioned heavy metals, can cause throat, nose, and eye-related problems. People may also have a harder time concentrating on tasks and develop headaches due to the fumes of fireworks.

"Fireworks can also cause respiratory problems such as: chronic or allergic bronchitis, bronchial asthma, sinusitis, rhinitis, pneumonia, and laryngitis," the memo explained.

"Itong mga may hika at COPD... maaaring atakihin... Biglang mahirapan silang huminga, na maaaring maging dahilan para dalhin sila sa emergency room ng hospital. At siyempre no, ang pinaka pangit pa dito yung iba diyan, makakabit sila sa respirator," said Limpin in the same UH report.

She added that the fumes not only act as triggers, but may actually cause death if an individual's condition has been aggravated enough.

The DOH also noted that firecrackers may also damage hearing, as the explosion of these exceeds the level which humans can withstand.

"Increase in the sound levels can lead to restlessness, temporary or permanent hearing loss, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbance," wrote the report.

Because the particles are so fine, even sealing up every windows and doors will not be enough to prevent fumes from entering one's home. Limpin, however, still advised families to stay indoors and wear face masks throughout the festivities.

Though face masks cannot block out all particulates, Limpin suggested sticking with them, as gas masks are more expensive than the more easily-available face masks. — Rie Takumi/VC, GMA News