Bursting crackers is characteristic of Diwali – young and old alike, cherish the adventurous side that it nurtures. As streets fill up by the hour with cracker-bombs and the skyline is peppered with beautiful fireworks, your lungs might be in trouble. Save them the difficulty of breathing in smoke and struggling with the allergies. Here are a few things you should understand:

1. The reason why smoke allergy sets in is because heavy metals like potassium chlorate, sulphur, arsenic sulphite, aluminium and copper are spread abundantly in the air post-Diwali, from the use of fire crackers.

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2. The smoke released around Diwali can cause a lot of lung and breathing issues, and skin issues – which in turn are allergies.

3. Your best bet would be to avoid coming in contact with firecrackers actively. If you know you have a tendency to become allergic, there is a need to keep away from bursting crackers.

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4. If you know that your exposure is inevitable, make sure that you wear a surgical mask, or cover your nose and mouth with a thin dupatta. This will not obviously take away the smoke, but it will create a temporary filter.

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5. Always carry a nasal spray so that you can clear your nasal passageways. As for your skin, keep aloe vera gel or calamine lotion handy, especially because they help dispel allergic reactions.

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6. You may also take a few handkerchiefs which have a few drops of lavender essential oil in them – and keep smelling them to avoid the impact of the allergic reactions from inhaling smoke.

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7. In general, keep a regular practice of yoga and pranayama as a vital part of your fitness regimen, as it expands your lungs’ vital capacities, and also helps your body breathe in better.

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8. Drink a lot of water – especially in a day packed with the festivities that Diwali is. By hydrating yourself, your lungs are less prone to dehydration. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water every day. Drinking water will also help by clearing up your skin and gives healthy glow.

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9. Pollution and smoke from crackers can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. Always make sure that you cover your face with a cotton cloth while watching or burning crackers. Make it a point to wash your face after you are done, and pat dry your face.

What is your preferred allergy-management routine? Share it with us, as you and your family go onto have a happy, safe and prosperous Diwali.

References:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/mumbai/Prevent-yourself-from-allergic-reaction-during-Diwali/articleshow/17172843.cms http://www.indiainfoline.com/article/print/news/prevent-yourself-from-allergic-reaction-during-diwali-5533374385_1.html