Exposure to smog can lead to respiratory illnesses, says healthcare expert

Smog exposure increases the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory problems, a healthcare expert said.

In an interview on Tuesday, infectious diseases expert Dr. Rontgene Solante said inhaling smog irritates an individual’s airway and prolonged exposure poses a significant risk, especially to those who are asthmatic.

“Their airway is already very sensitive. So anything that can be inhaled and sustained, they can go to the hospital because of difficulty of breathing. Worse, it can also lead to pneumonia,” he said.

Solante said pneumonia caused by smog would cause chemical pneumonia, which is a specific type of pneumonia that results from inhaling toxic pollutants rather than infection from bacteria.

“Hindi 'yan microbial. (It is not microbial.) It's chemical pneumonia coming from the smog. But they will still present like a pneumonia with flu or bacterial,” he said.

The Department of Health (DOH) had said that the recent fire at the Navotas Sanitary Landfill had caused the spread of particulate matter PM 2.5.

“It is best for those living near the source of pollution to stay indoors, keeping doors and windows closed while using damp cloths to seal off gaps. If there is a need to go outside, wear N95 or KN95 masks. In the absence of those, double surgical masks or a wet clean cloth over the nose and mouth may help,” said DOH Undersecretary Albert Domingo.

“Stay hydrated; those with respiratory conditions should be ready with their rescue medications (inhalers, etc). For any difficulty of breathing, consult the nearest emergency room,” he added.  —LA/VBL, GMA News