Patients who have breathing problems such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are complaining of aggravated symptoms, said doctors.

“Overall there has been a 15-20% increase in the number of patients coming to me with cough, breathlessness, burning sensation in the eyes since Dussehra,” said Dr Kartik Shah, pulmonologist, Saifee Hospital, Charni Road.

“During Diwali, there were patients with no prior history of respiratory problems, who needed admission due to acute breathlessness,” he added.

Indoor pollution caused by burning of incense sticks, lighting diyas have significantly contributed to patients breathing troubles, said doctors.

“People somehow don’t view indoor pollution with the same level of seriousness as outdoor pollution. Indoor smoke is harmful as people are continuously breathing the same air,” said Dr Sujeet Rajan, pulmonologist, Bombay Hospital, Marine Lines.

Doctors also said that the number of cases this year is lesser compared to last Diwali.

“This year post-Diwali, The number of patients with breathing troubles has reduced to half. However, there are many people who are coming with fever, cold and cough, which is due to the change in weather,” said Dr Prashant Chajjed, pulmonologist, Fortis Hospital, Mulund.

“The numbers will go up in the coming days,” he added.

“Everyone should take flu vaccine shots and people with chronic lung diseases must ensure that they do not skip the medication,” he added.

ENT (ear, nose and throat) specialists, who usually have their clinics filled after Diwali, said that they saw fewer patients this year.

Dr Samir Bhargava, ENT specialist at Cooper Hospital, Juhu, said he saw just two cases of ear drum damage this year as compared to five cases last year.

“Two children, aged 10 and 14, had perforations in their ear drums due to the sound of Diwali crackers. However, no one came with any permanent hearing loss this year,” Dr Samir Bhargava said.