Dr. Khurshid Ahmad Dar, Professor of Respiratory Medicine at Government Medical College (GMC), Srinagar, has advised residents to take preventive measures against respiratory illnesses and seasonal infections during the winter months.
According to the advisory attributed to Dr. Dar, people with pre-existing respiratory conditions, particularly asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), may experience worsening symptoms during winter. Exposure to cold air, smoke, fog and indoor air pollution from traditional heating appliances such as kangris and bukharis can aggravate respiratory problems.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
Important points readers should notice.
Winter conditions can aggravate asthma and COPD symptoms.
Indoor smoke and inadequate ventilation can affect respiratory health.
High-risk individuals should consult doctors about influenza vaccination.
Patients should continue prescribed respiratory medications.
Unnecessary antibiotic use and self-medication should be avoided.
Persistent fever, cough and breathing difficulties require medical attention.
He advised people belonging to high-risk groups to consult their doctors about seasonal influenza vaccination and follow prescribed medical treatment. These groups include people with chronic respiratory conditions, pregnant women, young children, older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease and cancer.
Highlighting the importance of indoor air quality, Dr. Dar cautioned against completely sealing rooms with polythene during winter. Poor ventilation, particularly when gas- or charcoal-based heating appliances are used, can allow harmful pollutants, including carbon monoxide, to accumulate indoors.
He stressed the importance of maintaining adequate ventilation and using heating appliances safely. He also advised patients with asthma and COPD not to discontinue prescribed medicines or inhalation therapies without consulting their treating doctors.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Winter can increase the risk of seasonal respiratory infections and worsen existing lung conditions. Preventive measures, safe indoor heating and timely medical care are particularly important for vulnerable populations in Kashmir.
Warning against self-medication, Dr. Dar particularly cautioned people against the unnecessary use of antibiotics for common colds and seasonal flu. He advised those experiencing high fever, persistent cough, nasal congestion or breathing difficulties to seek medical attention from a qualified doctor or the nearest government health facility.
He also highlighted the possibility of influenza-related complications, including pneumonia, particularly among vulnerable individuals.
Dr. Dar further emphasised the importance of adequate hydration, balanced nutrition and healthy daily habits to support overall health during the colder months.
He appealed to residents to remain vigilant, maintain proper ventilation at home, follow medical advice and seek timely treatment to reduce the risk of winter-related respiratory complications.
