Odisha: Doctors reach out to needy through social media

BHUBANESWAR: In the stressful times, some doctors have gone beyond their call of duty and used the social media to help the needy. Despite their hectic work schedule, they have not only been offering free consultation over phone but also sensitising people with Covid-related updates.
Dr Biswaranjan Kar, posted in Jajpur district, has launched a campaign from his Twitter handle (@drgynaec) on precautions, symptoms, medication and awareness on Covid-19 infection. On Thursday, he shared a vital thread on Twitter about happy hypoxia, a condition where the Covid-infected patients are unaware of their low blood oxygen level and continue with their normal activities.
A number of young people have been affected by lung infection and suffering from happy hypoxia. “Unless the oxygen saturation in the bloodstream is monitored regularly, the patients suffering from happy hypoxia may develop severe health complications that may turn fatal. I have shared details, relating to what to do and what not in the thread,” Biswaranjan said.
Besides, his daily tips on Covid-19 symptoms, treatment and vaccination have come in handy for many people, who have been finding it difficult to visit hospitals during the pandemic. Phone of Deepak Kar, another doctor, has not stopped ringing as he is busy attending to a number of distress calls. “I have been receiving at least 30 to 40 direct messages on my Twitter handle (@drdeepak8). The questions ranged from steps that are required during home isolation to the treatment procedures and timing of hospitalization,” Deepak said.
Doctor Pooja Dash believes in building confidence among the infected patients during the worst-ever crisis facing mankind. “Good mental health leads to faster recovery. There is no need to panic when one tests positive for Covid. The Covid-recovered persons should share their recovery/success stories with the infected persons, who are in home isolation, and boost their confidence,” read Pooja’s sensitisation message on her Twitter handle (@being_eyedolls).
Some other doctors have been offering tele-consultation either directly or with the help of voluntary organisations and helplines.