Diwali is the time of the year when our nation’s children are on holiday and festivities are rampant. Sadly this fun time for children is also when firecrackers and fireworks are available in plenty. The word “firecrackers” evokes quite a bit of emotion and is often associated with great joy but one must realize that the chemical smoke and gases released from firecrackers can be regarded as a serious concern for the capacity of eyes for children.

It is shocking to know that mothers and fathers have been using firecrackers for this long despite it being scientifically proven to be a pollutant and one that can heavily damage children’s eyesight.

But now, as a parent, most people see things differently—firecracker smoke, while dazzling, risks young eyes and health. From choosing eco-friendly lights and indoor activities, ensuring a festive, safe celebration for your children’s well-being is important and necessary. Dr. Neeraj Sanduja, MBBS, MS - Ophthalmology, Ophthalmologist, Eye Surgeon shares all about the toxic effects of smoke from the firecrackers kids so lovingly enjoy bursting and how harmful they can be for their eyes.

Hazardous Effects of Firecracker Smoke

The smoke from firecrackers is a blend of toxic chemicals and fine particles, each carrying potential harm for the delicate tissues of the eyes. Here are some key pollutants present in firecracker smoke that pose specific dangers:

Particulate matter: These are the fumes exhaled from burning that are extremely small but can infiltrate deep into the lungs and eyes creating lesions and scars.

Sulfur dioxide & nitrogen oxides: These gasses emit acid rain, it's easy to comprehend how detrimental it is to the human body.

Heavy metals: If consumed through the skin lead arsenic or any other toxic metals emitted through firecrackers will inflict great damage.

Common Eye Conditions Linked to Firecracker Pollution in Children

Exposure to firecracker smoke can cause a range of immediate symptoms in children, as well as chronic eye problems that may not become apparent until much later. Children are at high risk of developing some symptoms upon exposure to firecracker smoke, and these include:

Red eye syndrome: Clinical eye examinations show that the eyes can be red and watery, as well as itchy due to the smoke's chemicals.

Eye pain: Another common complaint in children is a burning and stinging sensation in the eye areas.

Intolerance to light: The burning of firecrackers leads to the emission of smoke that can irritate the eyes and increase their sensitivity.

Corneal damage: Severe inflammation of the outer layer of the eyeball caused by exposure to smoke may be a more damaging injury caused than previously mentioned damages of the inner layer.

Long-Term Effects of Firecracker Smoke on Eye Health

While some eye issues may appear right after exposure, others may develop subtly and manifest over time, resulting in chronic eye conditions. Dr Neeraj exclaims, "Of great concern is the fact that parents may not notice these initial signs and the signs that are causes are others since these are only some of the diseases that are dangerous but children who continuously come into contact with air polluted by firecrackers may consider the following risks:

Cataracts

Glaucoma

Dry eye syndrome

Tips for Protecting Children’s Eyes During Diwali

Parents can observe the following measures to shield their children's eyes from the harmful effects of firecracker smoke:

Avoid exposure: In the first place, the best way to avoid damaging children’s eyes is to prevent any contact with firecracker smoke. Encourage children to remain in the house or in well-ventilated areas during a firework display.

Wear protective eyewear: In the event that children have to go outside during a firework display, they should wear protective eyewear such as goggles or sunglasses.

Rinse eyes thoroughly: In case of exposure of firework smoke to the child’s eyes, the affected eyes should be washed with plenty of clean water.

Seek medical attention: If a child suffers from intense pain in the eyes, redness in the eyes or any changes in vision after exposure to cracker smoke, he/she should be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible.

Parental Guidance During Diwali

1.⁠ ⁠Educate Children on Firecracker Safety

2.⁠ ⁠Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI)

3.⁠ ⁠Plan Indoor Activities During Peak Pollution Hours

4.⁠ ⁠Encourage Healthy Eye Habits (Regular Exams, Hygiene)

Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Firecrackers

1.⁠ ⁠Eco-Friendly Firecrackers

2.⁠ ⁠Laser Light Shows

3.⁠ ⁠Community Events (Parades, Festivals)

4.⁠ ⁠Indoor Games and Activities

5.⁠ ⁠Environmentally Conscious Celebrations

Firecrackers undoubtedly liven up the festivities; however, the use of firecrackers and their impact on the health of children has caused a lot of concern, especially their vision. It has become crucial to protect young developing eyes from fire cracker pollution which is harmful to them, especially in the long run. In this manner, we are able to assist in the preservation of our children’s eyesight and create safe and happy festive occasions for everyone.

Recently, we are seeing a rise in ‘grind culture’. People are encouraged to pack their days with work and be as productive as possible to secure future success. However, did you know that chasing this success could come at the cost of your heart's health? Dr. Dmitry Yaranov, MD, a cardiologist, who often shared important health advice and knowledge on Instagram videos, explained posted about how as a practicing healthcare professional, there are many heart facts that he wished his patients knew about.

Things we often perceive as important for our careers can come at the cost of our mental and physical health. By not realizing the value of their health and ignoring their limits, people often stretch themselves too far, which can result in reaching a breaking point.

In a recent video posted with the text, “After treating thousands of patients with heart failure this are the things I wish more people knew before it was too late” in the caption he listed 6 hard facts that most people ignore.

6 Habits That Are Leading You To Heart Failure

In the caption Dr. Yaranov explained that cardiovascular health involves much more than just hitting the gym and eating salads. Your heart health is fundamentally tied to sleep, stress management, environmental factors, access to resources, and even the state of your gut. Fix the foundation, not just the numbers.

Sleep Deprivation is Dangerous

Sleeping only six hours nightly and pushing yourself is a serious threat, not a badge of honor. This chronic sleep loss significantly raises your long-term risk of developing severe conditions like heart failure, having a stroke, or experiencing sudden cardiac death. Your body needs rest to recover.

Air Quality Hardens Arteries

Commuting daily in heavy traffic means breathing exhaust and particulate matter. This consistent exposure to air pollution does more than irritate your lungs; scientific studies confirm it literally hardens your arteries, increasing your risk for major cardiac events over time.

Stress Causes Overload

If you are always stressed and simply "pushing through" without managing the pressure, your body is producing too much cortisol. This hormonal overload leads to persistent high blood pressure and widespread inflammation, key factors that severely damage the cardiovascular system.

Gum Health Impacts Heart Health

Ignoring routine dental care and having gum disease creates chronic infection in your mouth. This persistent gum disease results in more body-wide inflammation, which is directly linked to a significantly higher risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular problems.

Food Access Matters

Even if you have the best intentions to eat well, living where healthy food is hard to find (a food desert) makes it difficult. This lack of access to nutritious options leads to worse cardiac outcomes, proving that environment, not just personal willpower, shapes your health.

Gut Health Affects Vital Signs

The state of your digestive system should not be ignored. The millions of bacteria in your gut microbiome play a critical, unrecognized role in helping your body regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. You must consciously feed your gut bacteria the right way.

Dr Punam Krishan has issued a caution to anyone taking certain medications for heart problems or circulation issues. Speaking on today’s (November 4) episode of the BBC talk show Morning Live, the NHS GP urged viewers to consult a doctor if they notice symptoms while on medication that could easily be mistaken for something minor.

As colder weather sets in, people are being advised to watch for warning signs that can be overlooked simply because of the low temperatures. Feeling cold is normal in winter, but consistently feeling chilly, especially in your hands and feet, while indoors or layered up should not be ignored, as certain medications can make you more vulnerable to these “hidden” problems.

Why Feeling Cold Could Signal Something Serious

Talking to hosts Gethin Jones and Helen Skelton, Dr Punam explained: “In winter, we all feel colder, but some more than others. We all have different cold thresholds. If you feel unusually cold indoors, when you’re wearing layers, or when the heating’s on, and it’s a new change, it’s worth checking out.”

She added, “This kind of cold could point to an underlying health issue. It’s not just feeling a bit chilly, it’s something that shouldn’t be ignored.”

Dr Punam also noted that as we age, our bodies naturally lose muscle mass and fat insulation, which keep us warm. Slower metabolism can also make it harder to maintain body temperature.

Symptoms to Watch For

Dr Punam advised that cold sensations accompanied by other signs, such as pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, stiffness, or changes in skin colour, should prompt a visit to the doctor.

Among common causes she encounters in her practice are iron deficiency and anaemia. “Low iron means the body doesn’t have enough healthy red blood cells to deliver oxygen throughout the body. Blood flow is prioritized to vital organs, so extremities like hands and feet feel the cold the most. It’s a simple blood test, easy to diagnose, and straightforward to treat, but should not be ignored,” she said.

Another condition to be mindful of is an underactive thyroid, which can slow metabolism and make someone feel excessively cold. Raynaud’s disease was also highlighted as a condition that can affect temperature regulation.

Dr Punam further cautioned people with heart disease, peripheral artery disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, particularly advanced diabetes, because these conditions can impact blood flow and nerve function, leaving hands and feet unusually cold. “If any of this sounds familiar, speak to your doctor,” she emphasized.

Medications That Can Affect Body Temperature

Dr Punam listed several medications that can interfere with how the body regulates heat, making it especially important to consult a doctor if you notice unusual coldness. These include:

• Diuretics
• Antidepressants
• Vasodilators
• Beta blockers

Diuretics, also called water tablets, help the body remove excess salt and water by increasing urine production. They are commonly prescribed for high blood pressure, heart failure, or fluid retention (oedema).

Diuretics work by influencing kidney function, causing the body to filter more salt and water into the urine. While feeling cold, particularly in hands and feet is a possible side effect, it is less common than others such as frequent urination or dizziness.

What Are Vasodilators and Beta Blockers?

According to the National Institutes of Health, vasodilators are medications that relax and widen blood vessels to help lower blood pressure. Beta blockers are drugs that reduce the effects of hormones such as adrenaline, slowing the heart rate and lowering blood pressure.

Some beta blockers, called vasodilating beta blockers, combine both actions. They not only slow the heart but also help relax blood vessels, either through mechanisms like alpha-1 blockade or by boosting nitric oxide production.

How Vasodilators and Beta Blockers Can Make You Feel Cold

Vasodilators may leave you feeling chilly because they direct more blood toward the skin. This increased blood flow helps the body release heat and lower core temperature. As more heat escapes through the skin, it can make your hands and feet feel unusually cold.

Beta blockers, often prescribed for conditions like anxiety, high blood pressure, or palpitations, can also cause cold extremities. This happens because the medication affects how blood circulates to your hands and feet.

Dr Punam cautioned: “Medications can play a big role. If you’ve recently started one and notice that you’re constantly feeling cold, it could be a side effect. In many cases, we can adjust your treatment to help.”

For millions living with Type 2 diabetes, every doctor’s appointment comes with a familiar worry: How can I prevent another heart attack or stroke? A new study shared at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 suggests that one simple, everyday pill might offer extra protection.

Researchers tracked people with Type 2 diabetes who faced moderate to high cardiovascular risk and discovered that those who regularly took low-dose aspirin had lower chances of heart attack, stroke, and death compared to those who didn’t take it.

Also Read: Air Quality Numbers Explained: What Each AQI Level Really Means And When It’s Safe To Step Outside

Low-Dose Aspirin May Lower Heart Risk in People With Diabetes

Adults with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) who took low-dose aspirin were less likely to experience a major heart event, including heart attack, stroke, or death, than others with similar risk levels who did not use aspirin, according to findings presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025.

For the study, researchers reviewed the health records of nearly 11,700 adults with type 2 diabetes and a high risk of heart disease who were part of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center network, which spans over 35 hospitals and 400 outpatient clinics across Pennsylvania, Maryland, and West Virginia.

Also Read: Taking Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro? Experts Warn Of Rare But Severe Reaction

The key findings were:

• According to the study, adults with Type 2 diabetes who took low-dose aspirin had a lower rate of heart attack (42.4%) than those who didn’t (61.2%).
• The stroke risk was also reduced for those on a low-dose aspirin routine (14.5% vs. 24.8%), as was the risk of death from any cause within a decade (33% vs. 50.7%).
• Any level of aspirin use appeared linked to fewer heart attacks and strokes, with the strongest protection seen among those who took it most consistently.
• In subgroup analyses, low-dose aspirin use lowered cardiovascular risk regardless of participants’ HbA1c levels (a measure of blood sugar control). However, the benefit was more pronounced among those with lower HbA1c levels, suggesting better-managed diabetes led to stronger protection.

“People with Type 2 diabetes and higher cardiovascular risk who reported using low-dose aspirin were significantly less likely to experience heart attack, stroke, or death over ten years than those who didn’t,” explained Dr. Aleesha Kainat, clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. “That benefit was greatest for people who took aspirin regularly throughout the follow-up period,” she added.

What Are the Risks of Low-Dose Aspirin?

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force advises adults over 60 not to take daily low-dose aspirin as a preventive measure for heart disease. The reason is that, while the medication can help reduce clot-related events, it also increases the risk of bleeding, especially in older adults.

“Although aspirin is often seen as harmless for most adults, it carries real risks, including potentially serious bleeding complications, particularly in older individuals,” noted a report from Healthline.

Recent evidence also suggests that daily aspirin may not benefit older adults unless they have already experienced a major cardiac event such as a heart attack.