Despite being the most-awaited season of the year, the monsoon brings with it a lot of illnesses and infections, warned doctors. They said one the most prevalent monsoon-related diseases this season is gastroenteritis.
“During the monsoon, waterlogging and overflowing sewage lines spread bacteria. Flies and other pests also act as agents that spread infection. If a person consumes food or drinks water that has come in contact with infectious bacteria, pests, toxins and parasites, it may cause gastroenteritis,” said Kanchan Naikawadi, preventive healthcare specialist, Indus Health Plus.
Gastroenteritis leads to irritation and inflammation of the inner stomach lining, causing swelling. An infected person suffers from acute diarrhoea and vomiting. Some of the other most common symptoms include abdominal pain, cramps and dehydration. All of these are noticeable in about 24-48 hours.
The condition, if not treated properly in time, can lead to more serious problems like kidney complications. Therefore, it is always advisable to visit a doctor for proper diagnosis and medication.
Doctors recommend that people should “wash hands properly after using the restroom, especially if they use a public washroom either at work or any other place; and keep their surroundings clean; sterilise surfaces like table tops, door handles, etc., with a bleach-based cleaner; drink water that is properly boiled and treated with chlorine; and avoid eating food prepared at roadside stalls or undercooked or raw fish.”
Nilesh Shah, group president, Metropolis Healthcare, said: “Preventive measures to avoid monsoon-related diseases are vital during this season. Consult your doctor immediately after first signs of fever and illness. Moreover, always choose an authorised/ accredited laboratory for testing as it is extremely important to have accurate reports for effective treatment.”
Partap Chauhan, director, Jiva Ayurveda, said following a healthy lifestyle and diet according to seasons is vital.
“Monsoon is a time when humidity levels in the atmosphere are high, which leads to lack of ojas, the western equivalent of immunity in Ayurveda. Vata dosha becomes naturally aggravated and pitta dosha starts accumulating in the body during this season, which often leads to skin, hair and digestive problems.”