Kottayam: Battered by the unbearable heat wave, Kerala is still awaiting the rain showers that might cool off the earth. Besides the harsh summer heat, extreme humidity and dust in the atmosphere too are bothersome. The temperature hardly drops during the wee hours, making the mornings hot too. Medical experts warn that the current weather conditions could trigger many health problems. The hospitals are getting filled with patients who complain of persistent fever, cough, bouts of cold and throat pain. Cases of dengue too have been reported in many places. There aren’t enough medicines in stock at many government hospitals, adding to the woes of the patients.
Severe cough and exhaustion often persist for weeks. Around 7,522 patients sought treatment for fever and cough in the government hospitals alone in the last two months. As per reports, 2,200 patients sought treatment for fever at various hospitals in the district within a week. Meanwhile, the authorities are worried about this alarming situation even though it is not rainy season yet. It is assumed that viral fever and persistent cough is spreading in the district due to changes in the weather conditions.
Most people who seek treatment at the general and taluk hospitals complain of high fever and cough. The number of fever patients has significantly gone up in private hospitals too. Long queues of patients are regularly seen in the general hospital, even after the OP time ends. Both children and adults fall prey to the viral fever accompanied by throat pain, shortness of breath, high body temperature and severe body aches.
Always consult a doctor
Even if the fever subsides, cough and exhaustion may persist for weeks. The gradual fluctuation in temperature may severely affect health. The district medical office has urged people to seek proper medical care in case of fever and to refrain from consuming medicines without consulting a doctor.
Precautions and tips
When people sneeze or cough without wearing masks, the droplets that contain viruses could spread in the atmosphere, making others sick too. Do not hesitate to seek medical help if you run a fever or have a cough, throat pain, runny nose, shortness of breath or vomiting. Always wear masks to prevent the spread of fever. Cover your face using a handkerchief while sneezing or coughing. It is better to avoid visiting fever patients at hospitals or homes.
“It takes time for the cough to get cured completely. Those who suffer from allergies and asthma may be down with a fever for up to a week, despite taking antibiotics. Viral infection too is seen in some people. Fever, cold, cough and headaches are seasonal illnesses. Besides, these may affect people of all ages. However, children are more likely to fall sick easily. Children below the age of five years are in the high-risk category. It is not advisable to take medicines without consulting a doctor,” Dr. Asha P Nair, RMO, General Hospital, Kottayam.
Consume plenty of water: Summer heat and sweat can dehydrate your body, resulting in unfavourable health outcomes such as fever and chills. Drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to keep yourself hydrated.
Take precautions to avoid heatstroke: Another major issue that older adults face during the hot summer months is heatstroke. The main reason that older adults are more vulnerable to this is that their bodies do not adjust to temperature changes as quickly. High fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, and dizziness are all common symptoms of heatstroke.
Light and comfortable attires: In the summer, it is best to dress in breathable and lightweight clothing to keep your body temperature regulated in the hot sun. Instead of heavy clothing, choose natural fabrics such as cotton and linen. Indoor stays are best: Outdoor activities should be limited to the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings before 11 a.m. or late evenings after 5 p.m.
Eat healthy and light: Consume small, frequent meals. Heavy meals with high carbohydrate and fat content generate a lot of heat in the body. Concentrate on fresh fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as oranges, watermelon, tomatoes, and so on. Protect your eyes: Wear protective eyewear to protect your eyes from the harsh sunlight at work and play. When going outside, wear sunglasses that block at least 99 per cent of UV rays.
Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Alcohol, fizzy drinks, and coffee can all dehydrate you quickly. If at all possible, try to limit your intake of these popular beverages, especially during hot weather. A good substitute is plain or flavoured water.
