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.

It's just July, and Mumbai’s monsoon has been swinging from tumultuous to alarmingly parched. When the climate shifts with such volatility, it’s bound to have an impact on your overall health.

From dehydration risk to chances of gastrointestinal infections, here’s how rapidly changing weather can take a toll on your mental health.

Impact Of Extreme Weather On Health

Respiratory Effects

HealthandMe spoke to Dr. Abizer Manked, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist at Saifee Hospital, Mumbai. One of the health impacts extreme weather has is on the respiratory system. Due to the increase of irritants and allergens, several respiratory issues can be triggered.

Dr Manked says, “The temperature and humidity can irritate our airways. This can trigger asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It can also trigger coughing, giving us throat infections, and making it harder to breathe. This is especially true for people who already face breathing problems.”

Allergy Triggers

The expert says that allergy episodes increase significantly during the monsoon, especially when the rain is inconsistent. An increase in humidity paves the way for mould and fungi growth, which can make allergies worse.

Cold And Flu-Like Symptoms

When temperatures and humidity change rapidly, our immune response can take a hit. It can lead to frequent episodes of common cold, cough, and other flu-like symptoms.

“When the weather changes quickly, it can also make us more likely to get infections like the common cold and flu. The weather itself does not make us sick. The sudden change can affect our body’s ability to fight off infections. When we are indoors with a lot of people during the rain, viruses spread easily,” Dr Manked explains.

Also read: Delhi's Poor AQI, Monsoon Conditions Put Children's Lungs at Risk: Ways to Keep Kids Safe

Heat Exhaustion And Dehydration

When a heavy rain episode is followed by hot and humid weather, it can lead to increased risk of heat-related illnesses.

Dr Manked says, “The humidity makes it hard for our bodies to cool down. This can make us tired, give us headaches, and leave us dehydrated more frequently. It can even lead to heat exhaustion. This especially holds true for people who work outside or spend a lot of time in the sun.”

Viral And Parasite Infections

In the monsoon, Mumbai sees the highest number of cases of viral and parasite infections like dengue and malaria.

Flooding and waterlogging create breeding hotspots for mosquitoes, which can lead to more chances of infections. Poor hygiene and maintenance of surroundings further increase the risk.

Fungal Infections

Staying in damp clothes and shoes for long periods increases the risk of contracting fungal infections. The expert says it’s crucial to keep one’s clothes dry to avoid the riks of skin infections.

Also read: Allergic Rhinitis Affects 1 In 10 Indian Adults. Here's Why Monsoon Makes It Worse, And What Helps

How To Protect Yourself From Weather Changes?

Simple precautions can go a long way in reducing health risks during an irregular monsoon:

• Drink clean, safe water, and avoid consuming food exposed to floodwater.
• Wash hands regularly with soap, especially before eating.
• Avoid walking through floodwater whenever possible.
• Wear waterproof footwear if you must step into waterlogged areas.
• Keep homes dry and well-ventilated to reduce mold growth.
• Empty containers that collect rainwater to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Stay hydrated even if the weather feels cooler.
• Change out of wet clothes promptly and dry your feet thoroughly.
• Seek medical attention if you develop persistent fever, severe diarrhea, breathing difficulties, or symptoms after exposure to floodwater.

Children, older adults, and people with asthma, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and other chronic illnesses are more likely to face these health effects during the monsoon. It is, therefore, crucial to take extra precautions and care for those with a weakened immune system.

When you hear the term plastic surgery, what comes to mind first? For many people, it's cosmetic enhancements such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, or body contouring. However, experts say this is one of the biggest misconceptions about the specialty.

Marking World Plastic Surgery Day on July 15, specialists highlighted that plastic surgery is far more than improving appearance. While cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing aesthetics, reconstructive plastic surgery is dedicated to restoring form and function after injuries, burns, cancer, or congenital conditions.

Originally launched as National Plastic Surgery Day by the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India (APSI) in 2011, the observance was adopted globally by international plastic surgery societies in 2021.

The theme for World Plastic Surgery Day 2026 is "Changing Lives with Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery."

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery Are Not the Same

Speaking to HealthandMe, Dr. Deepak K. L. Gowda, Senior Consultant – Aesthetics, Plastic Surgery & Reconstructive Surgery at SPARSH Hospital, said plastic surgery is a broad medical specialty, while cosmetic surgery is only one of its subspecialties.

Cosmetic surgery is performed to improve the appearance of otherwise healthy and functional body structures. Reconstructive plastic surgery, on the other hand, aims to restore appearance and function following injury, disease, cancer surgery, burns, or congenital defects.

According to Dr. Gowda, reconstructive procedures account for more than 75% of plastic surgery practice, while cosmetic procedures make up a comparatively smaller proportion. However, the growing popularity of aesthetic treatments has led many people to wrongly assume that plastic surgery is only about beauty enhancement.

Common Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic surgery is designed to enhance physical appearance in individuals whose body structures function normally. Some of the most commonly performed procedures include: breast augmentation, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), facelifts

and dermal fillers and more.

When Is Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Needed?

Reconstructive plastic surgery helps restore both appearance and function after illness, injury, or trauma. Common procedures include:

• Breast reconstruction after cancer surgery
• Burn reconstruction
• Cleft lip and palate correction
• Reconstruction of congenital limb abnormalities
• Hand surgery

Seven Questions To Ask Before A Cosmetic Procedure

Dr. Chintan Gujarati, Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeon at Ruby Hall Clinic, told HealthandMe that cosmetic procedures can enhance appearance and boost confidence, but they should always be approached with careful planning and informed decision-making.

He recommended asking these seven questions before undergoing any cosmetic procedure:

1. Is the procedure right for me?

Discuss whether the treatment is suitable for your health, goals, and individual needs.

2. Is my surgeon qualified?

Ensure the procedure is performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon or a trained specialist with relevant experience.

3. What are the risks?

Understand possible complications, including infection, scarring, or the need for additional treatment.

4. What results can I realistically expect?

Cosmetic procedures can improve appearance, but they cannot guarantee perfection.

5. What is the recovery process?

Ask about downtime, pain management, activity restrictions, and when you can safely return to your routine.

6. What will the procedure cost?

Request a detailed breakdown covering consultation fees, hospital charges, medications, and follow-up visits to avoid unexpected expenses.

7. What if I am unhappy with the results?

Discuss revision policies and available corrective options before making a decision.

Making an Informed Decision

Experts emphasized that choosing to undergo a cosmetic procedure is a personal decision that should be based on realistic expectations, qualified medical advice, and a clear understanding of the benefits, risks, recovery process, and overall costs.

They also stress that plastic surgery extends well beyond aesthetics, with reconstructive surgery continuing to play a vital role in restoring both function and quality of life for patients affected by injury, disease, or congenital conditions.

A new study has found that muscle health may be just as important as body weight in determining a person's risk of developing type 2 diabetes, highlighting the need to look beyond the number on the scale.

The research, led by Curtin University in Australia found that people with both excess body fat and low muscle mass faced a significantly greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who had obesity alone. The findings said that building and preserving muscle mass could become key in diabetes prevention.

How Was The Study Conducted?

The researchers studied data from thousands of adults to examine how body composition shapes type 2 diabetes risk. Participants were grouped based on levels of body fat and muscle mass, allowing scientists to compare how different combinations affected the chances of developing the disease.

Individuals with both high body fat and poor muscle health were more prone to type 2 diabetes compared to people who were obese but maintained healthier muscle mass.

According to the researchers, the findings confirm that muscle tissue plays a vital role in regulating blood sugar because it is one of the body's primary sites for glucose storage and use.

"Most people know carrying excess weight can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, but our findings show muscle health is also an important piece of the puzzle," said lead researcher Mr. Guan. "People with both excess body fat and low muscle mass had a substantially higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those with obesity alone."

He added, "This suggests we need to look beyond the number on the scales when assessing diabetes risk, as maintaining muscle strength and muscle mass may be just as important as managing body weight."

Also read: Wegovy More Likely To Cause Rare Blindness Than Ozempic And Other Similar Drugs, Recent Study Finds

Importance Of Preserving Muscle Mass

The study also sheds light on sarcopenic obesity, a condition characterized by excess body fat combined with reduced muscle mass or muscle function. Researchers say this condition is often overlooked because many people appear to have only obesity, while declining muscle health remains undetected.

Experts believe the findings indicate that rather than relying solely on body mass index (BMI), experts must assess muscle mass and strength when identifying patients at high risk for diabetes. This can help prevent the disease early.

The research also supports current public health recommendations that say resistance training alongside aerobic exercise is crucial.

Strength training helps preserve and build muscle mass while improving insulin sensitivity, making it an important component of diabetes prevention. Combined with adequate protein intake and healthy weight management, maintaining muscle health may significantly reduce long-term metabolic risk.

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder in which the body fails to utilize insulin. Frequently associated with obesity, a diet lacking in nutritious foods, and physical inactivity can lead to this diagnosis, It affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide and continues to rise alongside increasing rates of obesity and physical inactivity.