India, Dec. 17 -- As winter sets in, many cities once again face the challenge of deteriorating air quality. With the Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently slipping into the 'poor' or even 'severe' category, respiratory specialists are witnessing a sharp rise in patients complaining of breathlessness, persistent cough, wheezing, chest tightness, and worsening allergies. From children to the elderly, no age group is spared the impact of the polluted air we inhale every day. According to pulmonologists and sleep medicine experts, prolonged exposure to polluted air not only causes temporary discomfort but also triggers long-term respiratory issues and disturbs sleep quality. It can also aggravate pre-existing lung conditions such as asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis. The season sees a higher incidence of respiratory infections, including pneumonia, especially among those with reduced immunity. Fine particulate matter like PM2.5 and PM10 penetrates into the respiratory system, causing airway inflammation. Pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and carbon monoxide irritate the nasal passages and lungs, often leading to respiratory allergies. This presents as recurrent sneezing, nasal congestion, throat irritation, and a dry or productive cough lasting for weeks. Another concern is that poor air quality weakens the lungs' defence mechanism, making them more vulnerable to viral and bacterial infections. This is one of the reasons pneumonia cases rise sharply during the winter months in polluted cities. In children and the elderly, the condition can become serious if treatment is delayed. Pollutants can trigger nasal congestion and airway inflammation, worsening conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). Many individuals experience increased snoring, disturbed sleep, morning headaches, and daytime fatigue during this season. Sleep medicine experts emphasise that untreated sleep apnoea not only disturbs rest but also increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. Fact: Only certified N95 or FFP2 masks effectively filter fine particulate matter. Fact: Indoor air can also be polluted due to poor ventilation, dust, incense sticks, and cooking fumes. Regular air purification is essential. Fact: Continuous coughing may indicate allergic bronchitis, asthma flare-up, or a lung infection requiring medical evaluation. Protecting your lungs is not a choice but a necessity. Early intervention and expert guidance from pulmonologists and sleep medicine specialists can help prevent complications and ensure healthier breathing.htc...