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Diwali is a time of joy, light and togetherness. But for people with asthma, partying can pose serious health risks. Asthma, a condition caused by inflammation of the lungs, affects the sensitivity of nerve endings in the airways. During an asthma attack, the lining of the airways swells, restricting the flow of air in and out of the lungs. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. Air pollution from fireworks and other festival activities can worsen asthma symptoms and cause breathing difficulties and severe attacks. To help asthmatics stay safe during Diwali, here are some practical tips you can use to reduce your risk of developing the condition.

Stay indoors: People with breathing problems such as asthma should stay indoors and limit smoke exposure. Before spending a long time in smoke or pollutants, you should take medication prescribed by a respiratory doctor. If you have severe breathing problems that cannot be controlled, it is best to seek medical attention immediately.

Wearing a mask: Wearing a mask while bursting crackers or celebrating Diwali with friends and family can prevent nasal irritation from fireworks smoke. This can reduce the risk of unexpected asthma attacks. Safety glasses should also be worn to prevent particles and smoke from entering the eyes.

Always wear your respirator. Regular use of a controller inhaler can significantly reduce the risk of asthma attacks. Take the recommended dose daily as directed by your doctor. There are a lot of irritants in the air during Diwali, so it's important to have an inhaler on hand. These inhalers help relieve symptoms quickly by delivering concentrated medication directly into the airways.

Avoid alcohol: Alcohol, wine and beer can trigger asthma symptoms in some people. The chemicals and preservatives in these drinks can irritate the airways and cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. During Diwali, when pollution and other allergens are already high, drinking alcohol can aggravate asthma. For safety reasons, people with asthma should avoid drinking alcohol during the festival.

Avoid dust. In preparation for Diwali, many people thoroughly clean their homes to welcome the festivities. During the cleaning process, dust mites and other allergens can be released into the air, which can be dangerous for asthmatics. Exposure to dust mites can cause sneezing, coughing and wheezing – a common cause of asthma attacks. To reduce this risk, it is best for asthmatics to avoid indoor cleaning. Wearing a mask while cleaning and providing adequate ventilation can reduce exposure to airborne allergens and keep asthma symptoms under control while on vacation.

Eat a balanced diet: Overeating is common during Diwali when there are many festive sweets and hearty foods. This is especially dangerous for people with asthma. Eating too much, especially fatty and heavy foods, can cause symptoms such as acid reflux, which can worsen asthma or lead to an attack.