Every year, as the monsoon withdraws and winter sets in, the air over Delhi NCR changes. The sky turns grey, the morning walk feels heavier, and coughs that should have cleared in a few days linger for weeks.
This is not a coincidence. Between 2021 and 2025, Delhi's average AQI more than doubled from September to October, rising from about 100 to 212. In 2026, the city recorded its most polluted first week of October in three years. Noida and Ghaziabad often record even worse air than Delhi during this season.
At Prayag Hospital, Sector 41, Noida, our doctors see the effect of this every winter: more patients with breathing difficulty, asthma flare-ups, chest infections, eye irritation and worsening heart conditions.
This guide explains what pollution does to your body, who is most at risk, which symptoms need a doctor, and the simple steps that genuinely reduce your exposure.
What the AQI Numbers Mean
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a score from 0 to 500 published by the Central Pollution Control Board. The higher the number, the more harmful the air.
| AQI | Category | What it means for health |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 50 | Good | Minimal impact |
| 51 to 100 | Satisfactory | Minor discomfort for sensitive people |
| 101 to 200 | Moderate | Breathing discomfort for people with asthma, lung or heart disease |
| 201 to 300 | Poor | Breathing discomfort for most people on prolonged exposure |
| 301 to 400 | Very Poor | Respiratory illness on prolonged exposure |
| 401 to 500 | Severe | Affects healthy people; serious risk for those with existing illness |
In peak winter, parts of Noida such as Sector 1, Sector 62 and Sector 116 have recorded AQI levels well above 350, firmly in the Very Poor to Severe range.
How Air Pollution Affects Your Body
The most harmful part of NCR's winter air is fine particulate matter, called PM2.5. These particles are about 30 times thinner than a human hair. They travel deep into the lungs and some pass into the bloodstream, which is why pollution affects far more than breathing.
Lungs and Airways
Polluted air inflames the airways. This shows up as a dry cough, throat irritation, wheezing and breathlessness. It also makes people more prone to bronchitis and pneumonia, and it triggers attacks in people with asthma or COPD.
Heart and Blood Pressure
Fine particles cause inflammation in blood vessels and can raise blood pressure. During high-pollution periods, doctors see more cases of chest pain, irregular heartbeat and heart attacks, especially in people who already have heart disease.
Eyes, Nose and Skin
Burning, watery and red eyes, a blocked or runny nose, sneezing, and dry, itchy skin are common through November and December.
Brain and Overall Wellbeing
Many people report headaches, fatigue, poor sleep and difficulty concentrating on high-AQI days. Long-term exposure is also linked with a higher risk of stroke.
Who Is Most at Risk
Everyone breathes the same air, but some people feel its effects faster and more severely:
Children
Their lungs are still developing and they breathe faster than adults.
Older Adults
Especially those above 60.
Pregnant Women
Pollution exposure is associated with low birth weight and preterm birth.
Asthma, COPD or Allergies
People with these conditions often see flare-ups when the AQI rises.
Heart Disease, BP or Diabetes
People living with heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.
Outdoor Workers and Commuters
Outdoor workers, commuters and morning walkers spend long hours breathing outdoor air, often during peak pollution hours.
Smokers
Their lungs are already under strain.
Warning Signs: When to See a Doctor
A mild, scratchy throat on a smoggy day is common. But some symptoms should not be brushed off as "just pollution."
- A cough lasting more than two weeks
- Wheezing or a whistling sound while breathing
- Breathlessness while climbing stairs or walking, which you did not have before
- Frequent colds, sinus problems or chest infections this season
- Asthma or COPD symptoms that are not controlled with your usual medicines
- A child who coughs mostly at night or after playing
- Severe breathlessness or inability to speak in full sentences
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness
- Bluish lips or fingertips
- Confusion, extreme drowsiness or fainting
- A sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg, or slurred speech
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
You cannot change the air outside, but you can significantly reduce how much of it you breathe.
Check the AQI Every Morning
Use the SAMEER app or CPCB website. Plan outdoor activity around it.
Shift Your Walk or Workout
Pollution is usually highest early morning and late evening in winter. On Poor or worse days, exercise indoors.
Wear the Right Mask
A well-fitted N95 or N99 mask filters fine particles. Cloth and surgical masks offer little protection against PM2.5.
Keep Indoor Air Cleaner
Keep windows closed on high-AQI days and ventilate briefly in the afternoon when levels dip. An air purifier with a HEPA filter helps in bedrooms. Avoid incense, mosquito coils and indoor smoking.
Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
Water keeps airways moist. Fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C and antioxidants support your body's natural defences.
Do Not Stop Prescribed Medicines
If you have asthma, COPD or heart disease, keep your inhalers and medicines handy and take them as advised. Speak to your doctor before winter about whether your plan needs adjusting.
Get Vaccinated
Ask your doctor about flu and pneumonia vaccines, especially for children, older adults and people with chronic illness.
Rinse and Soothe
Washing your face and eyes after coming indoors and steam inhalation can ease irritation.
Celebrate Diwali Responsibly
Firecracker smoke sharply worsens the air for days afterwards. Keep children and elderly family members indoors during the peak.
Pollution-Related Care at Prayag Hospital, Noida
Prayag Hospital, Sector 41, Noida, near Noida City Centre, has been caring for families in the region since 1995. For pollution-related health problems, our teams offer:
- OPD consultations with experienced physicians for persistent cough, breathlessness, allergies and recurring chest infections
- Diagnostics to assess lung function and identify infections
- Management of asthma, COPD and heart conditions that worsen in winter
- Paediatric care for children with breathing problems
- 24x7 emergency care for severe breathlessness, chest pain or stroke symptoms
Prayag Hospital is NABH-accredited and CGHS empanelled.
Frequently Asked Questions
