Pre-monsoon showers to bring with them host of illnesses

With the city witnessing pre-monsoon showers on Wednesday, doctors have a word of caution for citizens, specially those suffering from diabetes and hypertension as they are the most prone to monsoon illnesses.

Doctors are dreading a two-fold rise in gastroenteritis and upper respiratory problems to begin with, soon followed by malaria and dengue.

Family physician from Thakurdwar, Dr Krishnakant Dhebri said, "Everyone should be prepared for monsoon and ensure they don't get wet. Presently, the city is witnessing pre-monsoon showers and the humidity is very high. I advise my patients to keep themselves hydrated and drink at least 10 glasses of water a day."

Doctors say people with diabetes, hypertension and low immunity should be more careful on what they eat and drink this season. "People with diabetes and hypertension should keep their blood sugar levels and blood pressure in control. People who have respiratory problems like asthma too should be very careful. In comparison to the general population, they are more prone to get these diseases and its complications. We advise them to take vaccines that can protect them from typhoid and hepatitis," said Dr Anil Ballani, physician at Lilavati Hospital.

Doctors have also warned against eating out during monsoon and have advised people to maintain personal hygiene like washing hands before eating and sneezing into handkerchiefs to avoid spreading infections. "Unhygienic eating habits — eating out often, not washing vegetables and fruits before eating, drinking unsafe water and gulping cold drinks or ice creams — lead to gastroenteritis, jaundice and typhoid. It is, therefore, necessary that we be careful with what we eat and drink in monsoon," said Dr Subodh Kedia, family physician in Bandra.

Agreeing with Kedia, Dr Pratit Samdhani, consulting physician, Jaslok Hospital, said, "Pre-monsoon showers result in an increase in the level of humidity, and pollutants in the atmosphere are brought down by rain. It is advisable to take precautions and not ignore fever or cough that prevails beyond 48 hours."

Medical advice
Dr Abhay Shirkande, consulting general physician, Kohinoor Hospital, gives tips on how to remain healthy during monsoon...
Diabetics should not walk barefoot as soil contains all types of germs during the rains. Use comfortable footwear
Bronchial asthma patients should ensure there is no accumulation and seepage of water in their house and that fungus does not grow on furniture
Malaria and dengue can be avoided by getting rid of stagnant water
Leptospirosis spreads through monsoon water infected or inflicted by the excreta of rodents. The infection may enter the skin through cuts on the feet. Wear protective footwear like gumboots
All citizens should take extra care of their diet, avoid juices, golas and other street food. It is advisable to avoid fruits or salads available on street. Also, avoid seafood. One should consume only pasteurised dairy products. Use of clean eggs with intact shells is recommended, as is cutting down on fried snacks. Food from cans or packets that are leaking or bulging should be discarded
Maintain hygiene. Wash hands with soap before eating. Cover your mouth with handkerchief before sneezing