Holi is a festival of colours and a joyful celebration of togetherness. However, the colours and water, sometimes makes it troublesome for us and our surroundings too! Thus, there are certain health concerns linked to the use of colours.  

Needless to say, Holi leads to air pollution, considering there is a tradition of throwing colours in the air as well as at people. So, there is definitely an impact on the health of those who are already suffering from respiratory disorders.  

But the question is, how is it affecting the health of patients with respiratory ailments?

According to a medical journal published by Ira Shah on Pediatric Oncall, cheap Holi colours, including liquid colours contain harmful agents like pieces of glass, mica and acids that have severe health effects. Other than these, Holi colours can also cause skin-related allergies like dermatitis and eczema. Both of them can lead to blisters, scaly skin, irritation and itching.    

Some of the respiratory allergies from Holi colours are as follows:  

• Rhinitis: This allergy induces inflammatory responses in the nasal membrane. Some of its symptoms include runny nose, sneezing and nasal congestion.  
• Pneumonitis: Pneumonitis happens when colours with chemical agents are inhaled. Symptoms include chest congestion, difficulty in breathing and fatigue.  
• Asthma: Commercially sold colours have tiny PM 10 particles that can damage the airway. People may experience difficulty in breathing and tend to run out of breath, even after any short physical activity.  

So, we at Lupin India, want to emphasize, as much as we can, how essential it is for you to take safety precautions during Holi.

What can you do to stay safe this Holi?

Some safety tips for Holi you should follow are:  

• Wear a dust mask.
• Use natural colours.
• Apply coconut oil or olive oil on your skin before going out for the celebration.
• Avoid eating anything, while your hands are coated with liquid or dry Holi colours.

Celebrate this beautiful, colourful festival with your family and friends, without compromising on your well-being.

On that note, we wish you a happy and safe Holi!

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.