Diseases skyrocketing with summer heat; 90 chicken pox cases getting reported daily, other diseases also spreading

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The number of people affected by summer diseases has also increased with the rise in temperature in the state. Chicken Pox, Jaundice, Tinea versicolor, Conjunctivitis, Stye etc. are getting reported. Many people are seeking treatment in hospitals every day due to excessive fatigue and exhaustion.

Doctors say that fatigue, exhaustion and bladder problems due to dehydration due to excessive sweating have also increased. To avoid this, it is suggested to avoid sun exposure as much as possible.

According to government hospitals, chicken pox cases have crossed 900 in ten days and 90 cases are being reported every day. The elderly, those with heart disease, diabetics, kidney patients, those undergoing cancer radiation treatment, road workers, agricultural and construction workers, etc. should be especially careful. The problem can also be severe in people with an overactive thyroid. People with skin diseases like psoriasis and eczema will be more uncomfortable due to less sweating.

AC is good but care should be taken

Relying on AC is good when the temperature rises, but sometimes it does more harm than good. People staying in AC rooms should drink water at regular intervals. This can prevent dehydration and skin dryness. Don't wait to drink water until you feel thirsty. You may not feel thirsty in an AC room. Avoid direct exposure to cold air while sitting next to AC. AC temperature should be adjusted to 24 degrees. AC filters should be cleaned once every six months to prevent dust build-up and health problems.

Drink plenty of water

• Drink two to three liters of water a day including salted rice porridge water and lemon juice.
• Include more fruits, vegetables and leafy greens in your diet. Cut down on meat.
• Soft drinks and beer may quench thirst temporarily but increase dehydration.
• Those who work in open areas should rest in the shade of trees from time to time. Drink boiled water frequently
• Do not allow children to play in the open

Physical discomfort will increase

1. The summer rains that fall will increase the humidity in the atmosphere
2. Heat increases when humidity joins with the temperature of the atmosphere
3. Experts say that physical discomfort due to heat will increase as humidity is likely to rise further
4. Currently, afternoon humidity is 50% to 60%. It can be as high as 70%
5. A region with a temperature of 32 degrees Celsius and 70% humidity can feel hot up to 40 degrees Celsius

Avoid excessive sun exposure. The elderly, children and those with serious health problems should be taken care of

- Dr. A. Altaf, Professor,

Community Medicine, Thiruvananthapuram Medical College