Air pollution can affect your brain

Air pollution is one of the most common causes of health issues as our bodies are exposed to the outside environment for more than 40% of the day. Apart from the lungs and heart, the brain is the third most vulnerable vital organ in the human body. There are magnetic particles present in the air that get deposited in our brain. These particles can also cause brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Air pollution can also cause a ‘silent’ ischemic stroke, which can lead to a blockage in the vessels that supply blood to the brain. Our vulnerability begins in the early periods of our life. It’s a time when neural connections are still developing and would go on to equip the brain to function for years to come.

With a UNICEF report claiming that there are over 121 million babies worldwide that live in heavily polluted environments, air pollution has proved to be one of the causes of weaker verbal and non-verbal IQ and memory, reduced test scores, and various other neurological behavioural issues.

Here are some measures you can take to steer clear of the effects of pollution:

• Avoid high-traffic areas as these polluted zones are prone to suspended particulate matter and ultrafine particulate matter.

• Cover your nose and mouth with protective gear in order to filter the air as it often consists of SPM, pollens and allergens.

• Parents should ensure that their children do not go outside without covering their respiratory organs.

(The author is director & HOD, Neurology, BLK Super Specialty Hospital)