'Mostly people working in AC rooms'; 2 lakh people reach hospitals complaining of discomfort

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: In the last few days, as many as 2,32,148 people sought treatment for fever in government hospitals in Kerala. There is no news about any viral spread of diseases nor has the health department alerted citizens about practising caution. If so, what may be the mainspring for such a surplus in the number of people seeking treatment from hospitals?

Most of the patients have shown symptoms of severe cough. The cough persists for weeks even after the fever subsides. This is known as post-viral cough. It is also seen in children.

This disease is nothing to worry about and is sure to subside after a few days. Even expert doctors have shared this opinion. However, there is no slowdown in the number of patients reaching hospitals in Kerala for discomfort caused by the cough.

Cough poses a serious challenge for people with weak immune systems; those people who walk in the early frosty mornings; those who are exposed to the sun during the day and those who work in a cold room.

Do not self-medicate. Medicines should be taken as prescribed by doctors. Doctors say that strong antibiotics are not necessary for viral cough. Health experts believe that cough is caused by the delay that the body takes to completely expel a small lung infection, swelling or viral infection.

• Those who do not have shortness of breath can steam regularly

• Put salt and turmeric powder in a little hot water and swish it in your mouth

• If the condition doesn’t improve, seek the services of a doctor

"Dry cough can be a major source of discomfort. A patient doesn't need to experience a dry cough during the first two days of fever. Dry cough will follow suit later” Dr. V. Sebi, Chief Medical Officer, Department of Indian Medicine.