Since air quality concerns are increasing globally, more people are noticing the connection between an area’s high pollution levels and the declining health of its locals. Several studies have established a link between exposure to air pollution and health issues like heart attacks, cancer, and respiratory conditions, among others. As an individual, you might feel powerless during such times. So, here are a few tips for breathing easy in polluted cities.

1. Invest in a good respirator mask
To protect yourself from the polluted air outside, you need to wear the right mask. Try to avoid comfort masks or surgical masks as they do not provide the necessary respiratory protection. Instead, invest specifically in pollution masks or air-purifying respiratory masks. Respirator masks, such as masks rated N95 or higher, filter airborne particles. But these should remain sealed to the mouth and the nose to ensure you do not breathe in contaminated air.

2. Change your exercise routes, time, or workout
Are the benefits of exercising outdoor superior to the negative impacts of air pollution? Well, that is one debated issue. However, you can follow certain steps to lower risks while still maximizing the benefit of outdoor exercises. These include the following.

• Step 1
  To ensure that you do not inhale polluted air into your respiratory tract, hit the running track either late in the evening or early in the morning. This is because pollutant levels in the air are maximum in the middle of the day.

• Step 2
  The pollution concentration in your city can vary from one street to another. So, try to keep away from the busiest streets, which can lower the degree of pollutants you breathe in.
• Step 3
  On days air pollutant levels are high, and the air quality index shows alarming results, do not indulge in cardio workouts outdoors. Cardio draws pollution deep into the lungs and can heighten your risk of developing a respiratory issue. So, till the levels drop to the prescribed limit, stick to other forms of exercise.

3. Be aware of the pollution forecasts in your neighborhood
Air quality predictions in the area can help you know when outdoor air is unhealthy. This way, you can avoid errands, commutes, or any other outdoor trip during this time. Use sources such as TV weather reports, local radio, and newspapers to stay updated. Websites, such as airnow.gov, can also be helpful.

4. Create minimum pollution inside
When you measure your houses’ Air Quality Index (AQI), remember that the air quality in your home might be different from the air outside. Multiple factors can influence air quality in your homes, such as burning incense, trash, or wood, smoking, and cooking. So, try producing the least amount of pollution.