Pollution-related ailments on rise in Tarai districts

By Our Correspondent,Sarlahi, Dec. 6: Severe dust and smoke pollution has led to a rise in health problems in Sarlahi and other districts across the Tarai-Madhes.

The excessive dust and smoke are the result of extensive road digging for new construction, burning paddy straw after harvest, and people making fires along roadsides, around houses and animal sheds in the evenings.

 Doctors said that people of all age groups are now experiencing health issues because of pollution.

Dr. Bodharaj Budhathoki, Medical Officer at Lalgadh Municipal Hospital, said that many people are currently suffering from eye irritation, cold, headaches, coughing, fever and asthma. 

According to him, out of the 150 to 200 patients who visit the municipal hospital daily, a large number are found affected by weather and pollution-related illnesses.

Dr. Budhathoki urged people to take precautions, as the increasing cold is likely to cause a further rise in asthma, allergies, throat infections and seasonal flu. He added that environmental pollution has already led to a surge in illnesses among young children.

Pediatrician Dr. Guneshwar Jha of Stuti Saumya Health Care in Malangawa said children are particularly vulnerable at this time. Because of changing weather and persistent dust and smoke everywhere, children are developing coughs, runny noses, phlegm, fevers and other related symptoms.

Doctors have advised people of all age groups to protect themselves from dust, smoke and cold. 

Dr. Devendrakumar Jha of Gair Aushadhalaya (non-pharmacy clinic), Nawalpur, warned that self-medicating by buying random medicines from pharmacies can worsen health conditions. He urged people to seek proper medical check-ups before taking any medicine.