Children and elderly at greater risk as doctors warn of firecracker injuries, eye damage and breathing problems during Diwali
Hyderabad, Nov 08 With Diwali celebrations approaching, doctors at CARE Hospitals have cautioned against firecracker-related burns, eye injuries and respiratory problems caused by smoke and air pollution. Children, older adults and people with existing lung or heart conditions are particularly vulnerable. Doctors have also warned that improper first aid and delays in seeking medical attention can worsen injuries and lead to complications.
Firecracker injuries can range from minor burns to serious damage involving the hands, face and eyes. Dr. P Shiva Kumar, Senior Consultant and HOD - Emergency Medicine, CARE Hospitals, HITEC City, explained that injuries are not limited to people lighting firecrackers, as bystanders, particularly children, can also be hurt by flying sparks and debris. Firecrackers should be used only in open spaces, with adequate distance maintained and children supervised by adults. Cotton clothing is preferable to loose or synthetic garments, while firecrackers that fail to ignite should never be approached immediately or relit.
Highlighting the importance of first aid, the emergency medicine specialist advised cooling burns under cool running water for 20 minutes. Applying ice, toothpaste, oil, turmeric or other household remedies should be avoided, as these can aggravate the injury or interfere with treatment. Blisters should not be broken, and the affected area should be loosely covered with a clean, non-stick dressing.
"A burn may look minor initially, but the damage can be deeper than it appears. The first few minutes are important. Proper first aid and timely medical attention can help prevent complications, particularly in cases involving deep burns or injuries to the face and hands," Dr. Shiva Kumar explained.
Eye injuries are another serious concern during Diwali. According to the emergency medicine specialist, flying particles and sparks can damage the eye and potentially affect vision. People should avoid rubbing an injured eye, applying pressure, attempting to remove embedded particles or using eye drops without medical advice. Any suspected firecracker-related eye injury requires urgent medical assessment, particularly when accompanied by pain, bleeding or blurred vision.
Beyond physical injuries, firecracker smoke releases fine particulate matter and harmful gases that can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other lung conditions. Exposure can trigger coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness, while high pollution levels may also pose additional risks for people with existing cardiovascular conditions.
Dr. Sudhir Prasad, Senior Pulmonologist, CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, explained that fine particulate matter released by firecrackers can travel deep into the lungs and irritate the airways. Children and older adults are particularly susceptible, while patients with existing respiratory conditions may experience worsening symptoms even after relatively short periods of exposure.
"For someone with asthma or COPD, firecracker smoke can trigger significant breathing difficulties. Patients should continue their prescribed medication, keep inhalers accessible and avoid areas with heavy smoke. Persistent wheezing, worsening breathlessness or chest discomfort should not be dismissed as temporary irritation, as these symptoms may require urgent medical attention," Dr. Sudhir cautioned.
To minimise exposure, the pulmonologist recommended limiting outdoor activities when air quality is poor, keeping doors and windows closed during periods of heavy smoke and avoiding crowded areas where firecrackers are being used. A properly fitted N95 mask can help reduce exposure to fine particulate matter outdoors, although it does not protect against harmful gases.
The doctors also advised families to keep basic first-aid supplies accessible and ensure that emergency medical assistance can be reached when required. Severe burns, eye injuries, chest pain and serious breathing difficulties should receive immediate medical attention.
CARE Hospitals urged people to celebrate Diwali responsibly, avoid unnecessary firecracker exposure and take precautions to protect vulnerable family members. Greater awareness, appropriate first aid and timely medical care can help reduce preventable injuries and health complications during the festive season.
