HAVE A SAFE DIWALI

HAVE A SAFE DIWALI

Diwali is the fascinating festival with rows of lights, eye-popping fireworks, rangoli with powders & flowers and yummy food. It is an important festival originated and celebrated in INDIA in the month of November [Karthika Masam]. Hindus celebrate the return of the God Rama and Sita to the city of Ayodhya after defeating the King Ravana and also Lord Krishna’s victory over King Narakasura.

People celebrate by exchanging gifts & sweets, wear new dresses, watch fireworks and blast crackers. But fireworks and fun come with hazardous side effects like release of toxic fumes, gases and Excess noise. Sometimes we may land in emergencies due to fire work injuries like burns, sudden hearing loss, tinnitus or ringing noise in ears, ear drum rupture, aggravation of asthma, sinusitis, Throat infections [pharyngitis].

The loud sounds from the fireworks often exceed 130 dB which is much higher than the accepted higher limit of 80 dB. This can damage the delicate cells and nerves of the inner ear which leads to permanent hearing loss.

The toxic gases irritate the windpipe [respiratory system] and cause increased phlegm production, nose block, difficulty in breathing and wheezing. This is especially worrisome in people with asthma and also those who recovered from COVID-19.

How to have a safe time during Diwali.

  • Wear cotton cloths at fireworks,
  • Keep a safe distance from fireworks,
  • Use protection for the ears with cotton, ear plugs and earmuffs,
  • Wear mask when going outdoors, and while blasting crackers.

If you experience any ear pain or decreased hearing, ringing sensation in ears or breathing problems, consult an ENT surgeon at the earliest.

Dr.P.V.L.N. Murthy

Senior consultant, ENT and Head & Neck surgeon, Star Hospitals

For Appointments, Call: 040 4477 7700