World Asthma Day 2025: Think You're Safe Indoors? These Hidden Home Hazards May Be Worsening Your Asthma (Image Credits: iStock)
World Asthma Day 2025: Asthma, the long-known breathing condition, is becoming tougher to manage these days. In 2025, it’s not just dust or pollen that’s triggering symptoms—modern life has brought along new and unexpected troublemakers, and they could be hiding right in your home or neighbourhood.
We spoke to Dr (Col) S.P. Rai, Consultant in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, who broke down the key asthma triggers people should watch out for in today’s world.
The Air Is Making Us Sick
Let’s start with something we all experience: air pollution. Cities like Mumbai now see poor air quality almost every day. Thanks to more traffic, construction dust, and industrial smoke, the air is full of tiny harmful particles.
“Polluted air is a big trigger for people with asthma,” says Dr Rai. “It can irritate the lungs, causing wheezing, coughing, and breathing trouble.”
What can you do? Keep an eye on the air quality index (AQI), especially before stepping out. Avoid outdoor workouts on high pollution days, and wear a mask in crowded or dusty areas—even if it's not required anymore.
Infections Still a Threat Post-COVID
Even though the COVID pandemic is mostly behind us, respiratory infections like the flu and cold are still around. And for people with asthma, they can be dangerous.
“Any viral infection, even a simple cold, can make asthma worse,” Dr. Rai explains. “It inflames the airways and can lead to serious breathing problems.”
How to stay safe: Get your flu shot and other vaccines regularly. Washing hands often and avoiding close contact with sick people still helps a lot.
Stress Can Make You Breathless
Here’s something you might not expect—stress can also be a trigger.
“In 2025, life is fast and stressful. That mental pressure can affect your breathing and worsen asthma,” says Dr. Rai.
Tip: Try calming activities like yoga, meditation, or even a daily 10-minute walk. Reducing stress is a powerful way to manage asthma.
Home Hazards You Didn't Notice
You may think you’re safest at home—but think again. Dust, mould, pet dander, incense smoke, and even your air fresheners can cause problems.
“Modern homes are sealed tightly for better cooling or heating, but that also traps allergens inside,” says Dr Rai. “We see patients whose symptoms get worse indoors.”
Fix it by: Keeping your home clean and well-ventilated, vacuuming with a HEPA filter, and avoiding incense or smoking indoors.
Spot the Signs EarlyIf you’re coughing a lot at night, feeling chest tightness, or getting breathless during a simple walk, don’t ignore it.
“These could be early signs of asthma. The sooner we treat it, the better,” Dr. Rai advises.
Busting Some Asthma Myths
Dr. Rai clears up a few common misunderstandings:
“Inhalers are not addictive. They’re safe and important for control.”
Before You Step Outside
Before you step out, here is a quick checklist you can use to keep yourself safe:
- Take your medicines
- Keep your inhaler handy
- Check AQI
- Avoid smoke and dust
- Stay updated on vaccines
- Manage stress every day
“In 2025, managing asthma is about more than just taking medicine,” says Dr Rai. “It’s about knowing your triggers, adjusting your lifestyle, and staying alert. With the right steps, you can stay in control of your asthma—not the other way around.”
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