The Delhi-NCR weather asthma risks facing children have become a concern as the region transitions from the monsoon season towards winter. Fluctuating temperatures, humidity, dust and changing air quality can irritate sensitive airways and trigger coughing, wheezing and breathing difficulties in children with asthma or allergies.
Dr Nikhil Rajvanshi, Consultant Paediatric Pulmonologist, Allergy and Sleep Specialist at Rainbow Children's Hospital, Delhi, said particulate matter can irritate the airways, increase inflammation and make children more vulnerable to respiratory symptoms.
Weather changes may also aggravate allergic rhinitis, causing sneezing, nasal congestion and post-nasal drip that can worsen asthma symptoms.
According to the Union Environment Ministry, Delhi recorded an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 102 in September 2026, the lowest September average in five years. However, the AQI reached 129 on September 30, placing it in the moderate category. The ministry has also noted that Delhi-NCR's air quality generally deteriorates during winter due to weather conditions and emission sources.
Why Children Are More Vulnerable
Children's airways can be particularly sensitive to environmental changes. Sudden temperature shifts may cause airway narrowing in susceptible children, while dry air can irritate the airway lining.
Dr Vishal Jain, Lead Consultant for Paediatrics and Neonatology at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said humidity can influence indoor allergens such as dust mites and mould. Poor air quality can further increase airway inflammation and sensitivity.
When several triggers occur together, children with asthma or allergies may experience coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or difficulty breathing.
Asthma Warning Signs Parents Should Watch For
Parents should pay attention to changes in their child's usual breathing pattern. Warning signs include:
- Persistent or worsening cough, particularly at night or during exercise.
- Recurrent wheezing or chest tightness.
- Shortness of breath or reduced exercise tolerance.
- Waking up at night because of coughing or breathing difficulties.
- Increased sneezing, nasal congestion or itchy, watery eyes.
- Needing a prescribed reliever inhaler more frequently than usual.
If a child struggles to speak, breathes very rapidly, develops visible chest retractions or becomes unusually drowsy, seek urgent medical attention.
How Parents Can Reduce Asthma Flare-Ups
Doctors recommend ensuring that prescribed asthma and allergy medicines are taken correctly and following the child's individual asthma action plan.
Parents can check local AQI readings before prolonged outdoor activities and consider moving strenuous exercise indoors when pollution levels are high.
At home, keeping bedrooms dust-free, washing bedding regularly, controlling dampness and mould, and avoiding tobacco smoke and indoor burning can help reduce exposure to common triggers.
Children with asthma do not necessarily need to remain indoors all the time. The aim is to reduce exposure during periods of poor air quality while maintaining appropriate treatment and normal activities when conditions allow.
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