As intense heatwaves and high humidity continue to grip several parts of the country, doctors are warning that extreme weather can do more than cause dehydration or heatstroke—it can also trigger breathlessness and a feeling of suffocation, particularly among vulnerable individuals.
Respiratory specialists say high humidity increases the amount of water vapour in the air, making breathing feel more difficult and forcing the lungs and respiratory muscles to work harder. The combination of heat and humidity can also irritate the airways, leading to chest tightness, wheezing and a sensation of not getting enough air.
According to medical experts, the body’s natural cooling system struggles during humid conditions because sweat does not evaporate efficiently. As a result, the heart works harder to regulate body temperature, increasing oxygen demand and placing additional stress on the lungs.
People suffering from asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, allergies, obesity, and elderly individuals are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe breathing problems during periods of extreme heat and humidity.
Doctors advise seeking immediate medical attention if breathlessness persists even after resting in a cool environment or is accompanied by warning signs such as bluish lips or fingertips, inability to speak full sentences, severe chest tightness, confusion, dizziness, or oxygen saturation below 93 percent.
To reduce the risk of respiratory distress, experts recommend staying well-hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak afternoon hours, monitoring local air quality and humidity levels, using prescribed inhalers where necessary, and keeping indoor humidity between 40 and 50 percent.
Health experts stress that understanding the impact of heat and humidity on the respiratory system and taking preventive measures can help protect lung health during the summer months.(Agencies)
