Just Minutes in Polluted Air Can Cause Heart Attack, Says Top Gangaram Cardiologist

Air Pollution Health Effects: One of the top cardiologists from Delhi’s Sir Gangaram Hospital says being in a polluted environment, like the one currently in the national capital, can lead to an increase in chances of having a heart attack. According to Dr Rajat Mohan, vice chairperson, Cardiology, toxic air and particulate matter PM 2.5, make your blood clot. “The most important short-term effect of being in pollution, which everyone is scared of, is a spike in the chances of having a heart attack. It happens as the blood begins to clot and the rhythm of your heart begins to slow down, showing missing beats, which can be a fatal condition to be in,” Dr Mohan told Times Now in an exclusive interview. “Those already battling heart diseases face

a huge risk of blockages in their arteries, thereby slowing their life expectancy,” he added.

How does exposure to short-term pollution cause cardiac issues?

Experts believe air pollution triggers inflammation and oxidative stress – both of which can gradually increase your blood pressure levels, along with clots. Tiny particles of smoke, dust, and poisonous gases in the environment enter your bloodstream – causing inflammation, which then damages your heart's electrical system. Long-term exposure also accelerates the development of atherosclerosis, also known as the build-up of plaque in the arteries, which makes your blood vessels narrower and more prone to blockages from blood clots. Pollutants also disrupt your heart's electrical activity – causing irregular heartbeats known as arrhythmias that are extremely dangerous.

How do pollution particles enter your bloodstream?

Doctors say the PM2.5 has a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or smaller and originates from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and wildfires. Their small size not only allows them to bypass the lungs' defences but also makes them cross the air-blood barrier to easily enter your bloodstream, from where they travel throughout your body. When you inhale the PM2.5 particles, they bypass the upper respiratory tract's defences and travel deep into the lungs to reach the alveoli, or tiny air sacs. From there, the particles pass through the epithelial and endothelial cells that make up the thin wall between the lungs and the blood capillaries. Once that barrier is crossed, the particles are then able to enter the bloodstream, making an easy transition to the entire body by attaching to the red blood cells to hitch a ride throughout the circulatory system.

How to prevent heart issues during heightened pollution?

According to Dr Mohan, to prevent heart issues during heightened pollution, the most effective individual strategies involve minimizing exposure to pollutants and maintaining a heart-healthy lifestyle. A few important steps you can take include:

• Wearing N95 masks whenever you go out.
• If possible, have an air purifier in your room.
• Eat a good, healthy, and balanced diet.
• Stay indoors with windows closed during high pollution events.
• Avoid burning wood or trash and consider switching from gas to electric or induction stoves.