City doctors have reported a rise in the number of patients suffering from breathing difficulties and upper respiratory tract infections, after a recent drop in temperature and spell of rain.

“Winter is critical for patients with heart, lung or kidney issues as the change in season can lead to bacterial or viral infections,” said Vikramjeet Singh, senior consultant, Internal Medicine, Aakash Healthcare: Super Speciality Hospital.

“Change in weather can lead to increased risk of heart attacks, symptoms of asthma can be aggravated, and people suffering from arthritis can experience joint pain and inflammation or swelling. There could also be breathing issues, migraine attacks and flu incidences,” said Dr. Singh.

Managing asthma

“As temperatures drop, managing asthma can become a challenge... cold air causes airways to tighten making breathing even more difficult for individuals who suffer from asthma,” said Manav Manchanda, Respiratory Medicine, Asian Hospital and Medical Center.

“Cold weather also increases the respiratory rate, which makes many people breathe through their mouths. As a result, cold and dry air enters the lungs and causes inflammation of the airways. It is advised that those with asthma should keep an inhaler nearby at all times during this period,” advised Dr. Manchanda.

Doctors said that a dip in mercury also causes arthritis to flair up as the cold weather makes the joints feel stiffer than usual, which leads to sever knee pain.

“The change in temperature can cause swelling around inflamed joints, causing more irritation to the surrounding nerves, which in turn increases the amount of pain felt and stiffness,” said Ramneek Mahajan, director of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital.

Doctors have advised people to keep warm during the winter months.

“Cooling of body parts may result in several cooling injuries... Hypothermia is considered the most severe cold injury, which occurs from excessive drop in body heat and the consequent lowering of the inner core temperature. It can be fatal,” said Dr. Singh.

“Sick and diabetic people must avoid going out and watch out for cold and cough. One must stay hydrated, eat nutritious food, and keep warm. Wash your hands and take Omega-3 capsules to develop better immunity,” said Anuja Lakra, consultant, Internal Medicines, Manipal Hospitals Dwarka.