Holi or the ‘festival of colours’ is a prominent Indian festival where people throw colours at each other to celebrate love and the arrival of spring. However, doctors say that asthma patients should be extra cautious while playing Holi as the colour powders could trigger asthma attacks. Asthma patients are advised to take the following precautions in order to celebrate Holi in a healthy way.
Wear a mask
Asthma patients should strictly cover their nose and mouth using a mask or scarf while playing Holi. The colour pigments, smoke and the dust particles in the dry weather shouldn’t enter your body. Make sure to wear a mask made using a material that allows good air circulation and lets you breathe comfortably.
No physical exertion
Holi is a vibrant festival which demands lots of physical activities like running, jumping and dancing. Even though you wouldn’t be able to completely avoid these, make sure that your body doesn’t get too exerted or tired. Straining your body too much may trigger asthma attacks. Taking breaks at regular intervals would help the lungs relax.
Say ‘no’ to synthetic colours
The chemicals in synthetic colours may irritate the windpipe causing symptoms of asthma. So, you could opt for organic colours made from natural substances like turmeric, rose powder or beetroot.
Avoid alcohol
Alcohols like red wine, white wine, cedar and beer could trigger asthma. So, it is safe to completely avoid alcohols during Holi. You could enjoy fruit juices to nourish the body.
Stay away from direct sunlight
Hot weather and humidity may not be ideal for asthma patients. So, playing Holi outside, under the harsh sun, for longer hours should be avoided.
Asthma patients should keep their inhalers with them while playing Holi. It is safe to stay away from crowded places and from pollution. Do not hesitate to consult a pulmonologist if you feel shortness of breath or other symptoms of asthma during Holi celebrations.
