With thousands of people in Jaipur suffering from severe respiratory and cardiovascular conditions caused by harmful particles, air pollution has become one of the city's most pressing health challenges. Residents in urban industrial zones and emissions-heavy areas of Jaipur are exposed to dangerous pollutants such as particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O3). These toxic substances significantly impact human health, leading to hospitalizations for illnesses like asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart attacks, and strokes. This article examines how air pollution affects the respiratory and cardiovascular health of Jaipur's population and the hospital care required to manage these conditions.

Respiratory Diseases and Air Pollution

Jaipur's respiratory health is significantly impacted by air pollution. The respiratory system is immediately impacted by harmful pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter, and ground-level ozone, which can result in both acute and long-term disorders.

Asthma

Jaipur's increasing air pollution makes asthma, a chronic inflammatory illness of the airways, worse. Polluted settings exacerbate symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and breathing difficulties. According to research, children in Jaipur are especially vulnerable to asthma because of their extended exposure to contaminated air. The city's hospitals use corticosteroids and bronchodilators to increase airflow and reduce inflammation when treating asthma flare-ups. In severe situations, mechanical ventilation or oxygen therapy may be necessary.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
The number of instances of COPD, which includes diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis, has increased in Jaipur as a result of extended exposure to air pollutants. Prolonged coughing, mucous production, and severe breathing difficulties are some of the symptoms. In order to treat COPD exacerbations brought on by infections or pollution, hospitals in Jaipur usually provide bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antibiotics. In order to treat respiratory failure in advanced cases, invasive mechanical ventilation or oxygen therapy may be necessary.

Pneumonia and Acute Respiratory Infections (ARIs)
Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with impaired immune systems, are more susceptible to pneumonia and other ARIs in Jaipur due to air pollution. The city's hospitals treat these illnesses with supportive treatments like oxygen therapy, antivirals, and antibiotics. In severe situations, mechanical ventilation is frequently necessary. Children and the elderly are given extra attention because they are more susceptible to these diseases.

Cardiovascular Diseases and Air Pollution

Air pollution also has a negative impact on Jaipur's cardiovascular health since it causes endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and systemic inflammation.

Heart Attacks (Myocardial Infarctions)

By encouraging inflammation and the production of blood clots, pollutants such as particulate matter in Jaipur's air can lead to heart attacks. In order to restore blood flow, hospital treatment for heart attack patients in Jaipur may involve procedures like coronary artery bypass surgery, angioplasty, or thrombolysis (drugs that dissolve clots). Prescription treatments such as blood thinners and anti-inflammatory pharmaceuticals are part of long-term management, as are lifestyle modifications to lower risks in the future.

Stroke

The risk of strokes, especially ischaemic strokes brought on by blood clots, is increased by exposure to Jaipur's contaminated air. Particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide are two important pollutants. Hospitals in Jaipur provide treatments like clot-dissolving medications, surgery, and rehabilitation therapies. Survivors often need ongoing cardiovascular care to manage associated conditions such as hypertension and arrhythmias.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Long-term exposure to air pollution in Jaipur is a significant risk factor for hypertension, which can result in major side effects like renal issues, heart disease, and strokes. Hospitals use drugs including beta-blockers, diuretics, and ACE inhibitors to treat hypertension. Additionally stressed are preventive actions like cutting back on pollution exposure and leading a healthy lifestyle.

Vulnerable Populations in Jaipur

Certain populations in Jaipur are more susceptible to the adverse effects of air pollution, requiring specialized hospital care:

• Children: With their developing respiratory systems, Jaipur’s children are at a higher risk. Frequent hospital visits are often required for asthma and other pollution-related conditions.

• Elderly: Older adults with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are more likely to face complications. Jaipur’s hospitals provide tailored care to manage conditions like COPD, asthma, and heart disease in this group.

• Low-Income Communities: Many residents of industrial or traffic-dense areas in Jaipur face greater exposure to pollutants. Limited access to healthcare worsens their outcomes, highlighting the need for equitable medical resources.

Hospital Care and Management

Hospital care in Jaipur for air pollution-related illnesses focuses on alleviating symptoms, managing inflammation, and restoring function. Key treatments include:

• Medications: Bronchodilators, corticosteroids, antibiotics, antivirals, and antihypertensives are widely used in Jaipur’s hospitals.

• Oxygen Therapy: Critical for severe respiratory conditions like ARIs and COPD.

• Invasive Procedures: Surgical interventions, thrombolysis, and mechanical ventilation are often necessary for severe cases of respiratory or cardiovascular failure.

Public Health and Prevention

The rising burden of air pollution-related diseases in Jaipur underscores the need for proactive public health measures. Stricter regulations, cleaner energy sources, and thoughtful urban planning can significantly reduce pollutant exposure and improve the city’s health outcomes. Hospitals in Jaipur must adapt to meet the growing demand for care while advocating for policies to curb air pollution.

Conclusion

Air pollution poses a severe threat to Jaipur’s respiratory and cardiovascular health, driving up hospitalizations for conditions like asthma, COPD, heart attacks, and strokes. Effective hospital care involves medications, oxygen therapy, and invasive procedures to manage these illnesses. However, addressing the root causes of pollution through public health initiatives and environmental policies is crucial to reduce the prevalence of these diseases. By prioritising both treatment and prevention, Jaipur can mitigate the health impacts of air pollution and work towards a healthier future for its residents.