Poor AQI: To help battle respiratory issues hospital in Mumbai sets up intensive care unit

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In the wake of deteriorating AQI in Mumbai, there has been a significant increase in respiratory diseases like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and tuberculosis. Factors such as construction work air pollution, and smoking are causing inflammation in the lungs and are affecting individuals across all age brackets

To provide solace to patients grappling with respiratory issues, Global Hospitals, Parel, Mumbai has unveiled an unprecedented Intensive Respiratory Care Unit (IRCU) facility featuring eight beds equipped with cutting-edge technology.

This specialised unit is specifically designed for the comprehensive management of complex respiratory conditions that have seen a surge post-pandemic. Their ICU facility will greatly help patients struggling with impaired lung function.

There has been a notable rise in the prevalence of respiratory issues across the country and Mumbai is one of the most polluted cities in India. One particular type of pulmonary problem that is on the rise is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) which includes conditions such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. Factors contributing to the increasing rates of COPD include smoking, air pollution, second-hand smoke exposure, and genetics.

Asthma, a chronic lung condition characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways leading to breathing difficulties, affects millions. In addition to these matters, the country is also grappling with elevated morbidity and mortality rates due to pneumonia and tuberculosis (TB). Global Hospital is is addressing this issue by inaugurating an IRCU facility, ensuring a specialised and dedicated medical facility exclusive for patients seeking care for respiratory diseases.

Dr Samir Garde, director of department of pulmonology and lung transplant, Global Hospitals, Parel said, "Air pollution due to construction work and increased traffic congestion has significantly heightened the risk of respiratory disorders. As a result, there has been an increase in cases of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Common complaints presented by affected individuals include breathlessness, chest infections, coughing up blood, wheezing, persistent coughing, episodes of fatigue, weight loss, and sputum production. It is crucial for those with respiratory disorders to promptly seek medical intervention in order to prevent further complications such as long-term lung damage that can disrupt their daily routines. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for effectively managing these issues."

Dr Prashant Borade, director, of critical care, at Global Hospitals Parel says, "Respiratory infections are a common and serious concern in the ICU, as they can significantly impact the health and recovery of patients. By promoting a holistic approach that combines proper infection control practices with individualised patient care strategies designed to enhance lung function, respiratory infections can be managed more successfully in ICUs.

"The newly launched facility promises to provide the highest level of care to patients facing respiratory challenges. The ICU's ventilation systems can adapt to individual patient needs. This ensures that each patient receives personalised and optimal treatment, improving their chances of recovery. The unit is outfitted with cutting-edge monitoring tools that allow experts to closely track and analyse a patient's breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other vital signs in real time." concluded Dr Vivek Talaulikar, COO, IHH Healthcare India.