Why rising temperatures can trigger breathing problems

India's worsening heatwave is not just causing dehydration and fatigue. Doctors warn that rising temperatures are increasing breathing problems, asthma flare-ups and respiratory infections.

In Short

• Extreme heat worsens breathing problems and respiratory infections
• Doctors report rise in asthma and COPD flare-ups this summer
• Heat, humidity and pollution together increase lung health risks

India’s ongoing heatwave is doing more than causing dehydration and exhaustion. Doctors are now warning that extreme heat is also affecting lung health, with a rise in breathing-related complaints being reported across cities.

Several states have been experiencing unusually high temperatures this summer. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued repeated heatwave warnings, while health experts are urging people to stay cautious as prolonged exposure to heat can put serious stress on the body.

But beyond heatstroke and fatigue, doctors say the lungs are also under pressure.

HOW EXTREME HEAT AFFECTS THE LUNGS

Heatwaves can directly affect the respiratory system in multiple ways.

“People often associate heatwaves with skin discomfort, but extreme heat can also affect the lungs. Breathing in very hot air can dry out the mucosa, making it more vulnerable to infections,” said Dr Neetu Jain, Senior Consultant, Pulmonologist, PSRI Hospital, New Delhi.

She added that prolonged heat exposure can affect both the upper and lower respiratory tract.

“Lung infections and breathing issues become more commanding heatwaves. As the body uses extra energy to cool itself, breathing becomes faster, often leading to breathlessness and fatigue,” she said.

Rising temperatures can also worsen air pollution levels, especially in urban regions already struggling with poor air quality.

Delhi-NCR, for instance, recently recorded poor air quality during the heatwave as dust particles and PM10 levels increased across the region. Authorities even implemented GRAP Stage 1 measures amid worsening conditions.

WHY HUMIDITY CAN MAKE IT WORSE

Heat becomes even more dangerous when combined with humidity.

“For people with pre-existing lung diseases, humid weather can worsen breathing problems as it reduces sweat evaporation and makes body cooling less efficient,” Dr Jain explained.

She added that high humidity can also trap pollutants, allergens and smoke closer to the ground, further irritating the airways.

“Both dry heat and humid hot air can be problematic for lung health,” she said.

Experts say this combination of heat and pollution is becoming increasingly common during Indian summers.

RISE IN ASTHMA AND BREATHING PROBLEMS

Pulmonologists are also witnessing a rise in respiratory complaints this season compared to last year.

“This season, respiratory infections are a little higher than what it was at the same time last year. Due to high levels of particulate matter, people are also facing increased risk of asthma acute exacerbation,” Dr Jain said.

With an increase in particulate matter, people face breathlessness, coughing, wheezing, fatigue and increased mucus production.

WHO IS MOST VULNERABLE?

Doctors say some groups face a much higher risk during heatwaves.

People who have asthma or COPD, elderly individuals, smokers and people who work outdoors for long period of time are the people who are most vulnerable.

Outdoor workers, traffic police personnel, delivery workers and construction labourers are among those spending long hours under direct heat exposure.

CAN HEAT AND POLLUTION CAUSE LONG-TERM DAMAGE?

The combination of extreme heat and poor air quality is not just uncomfortable but potentially dangerous in the long run, as “it can cause long-term health issues, especially those who live in highly polluted cities,” said Dr Jain.

Studies across the world have increasingly linked climate change, rising temperatures and worsening air pollution with respiratory illnesses and declining lung health.

WARNING SIGNS PEOPLE SHOULD NOT IGNORE

Doctors say people should immediately pay attention to symptoms that may indicate heat-related respiratory stress.

• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing that doesn't improve
• Chest tightness
• Breathlessness
• Bluish discolouration of mucosa
• Dizziness or extreme fatigue

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR LUNGS DURING A HEATWAVE

Doctors recommend monitoring air quality before stepping outside, especially in polluted cities.

“To protect your respiratory health during hot weather, stay indoors during peak hours, 11 am to 4 pm, because that is the time when temperature is at its highest,” she said.

Dr Jain suggested the following precautions during extreme heat:

• Keep windows and doors closed during polluted hours.
• Use curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight.
• Stay hydrated and drink electrolyte-rich fluids.
• Avoid outdoor activity during peak heat.
• Wear loose, light cotton clothing.
• Carry a hat or umbrella outdoors.

She also urged people with asthma and COPD not to skip their medications during summer.

As India continues to battle intense summer temperatures, one shouldn’t completely avoid the risk to the lungs.

- Ends