After Diwali celebrations, the air quality index (AQI) in Delhi has deteriorated. The toxic air has prevailed in several states for several weeks and is the main cause of many illnesses. Pollutants in the air can affect every part of the body, from the lungs to the nose to the eyes to the skin. Prolonged exposure to toxic air can also affect brain health.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Biplab Das, director and senior consultant in neurology at Narayana Hospital, Gurugram: “Prolonged exposure to toxic air is increasingly recognized as a silent but serious threat to brain health.” Unlike immediate respiratory symptoms, the neurological effects can be insidious, accumulating over time and manifesting in various harmful ways.”

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Here are the dangers of toxic air to brain health:

Neuroinflammation

“One of the more worrying aspects is the possibility of neuroinflammation – chronic exposure to pollutants triggers immune responses in the brain and sets off an inflammatory cascade. This persistent inflammatory state can weaken neuronal connections, disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters and increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's,” explained Dr. Biplab Das.

Oxidative stress

Oxidative stress disrupts energy production in brain cells and impairs cognitive functions such as memory, concentration and decision-making. This can further accelerate the aging process.

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Reduced cognitive abilities and behavioral problems

Dr. Sindhu DM, consultant neurologist and epileptologist, Apollo Hospitals, Sheshadripuram, Bangalore, said, “Children's brains are vulnerable to the adverse effects of air pollution. Toxic air is considered one of the risk factors for neurodevelopmental disorders in children such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).”

Changes in brain structure

“The effects of air pollution on cognitive function in otherwise healthy individuals appear to worsen with increasing duration of exposure. MRI studies in humans have shown that increased exposure to toxic air is associated with changes in brain structure in the older age group, including atrophy,” added Dr. Added Sindhu DM.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any questions about a medical condition, always seek advice from your doctor.