Skin, respiratory concerns: Gurgaon hospitals ready for post-Holi patient surge

Gurgaon: Hospitals in the city have geared up to deal with the influx of patients likely to come at emergency on and after the Holi festival after health department's direction.
According to doctors, usually, people suffer from skin and eye issues during this festival. To cater to patients with eye issues, ophthalmologists have been posted at the emergencies in several hospitals and the health department has directed Sector 10 Civil Hospital and sub-divisional hospitals to have doctors available round-the-clock.
"A dedicated team will be deployed at the Civil Hospital. Three ambulances will be on standby for emergency cases on Friday. All hospitals have been told to stay on alert," said Dr Virender Yadav, CMO Gurgaon.
Doctors also recommend wearing dust masks and using natural colours to avoid respiratory problems during the festival. Experts pointed out that people with poor lung condition were vulnerable to respiratory problems if exposed to synthetic colours that contain toxic chemicals.
Dr Neeraj Gupta, associate director - pulmonology, respiratory critical care & sleep medicine, Max Hospital, Gurgaon, said, "Holi is a time of joy and celebration, but the synthetic colours used during the festival can be harmful to the respiratory system. These colours contain toxic chemicals that, when inhaled, can irritate the lungs and airways. This can lead to coughing, sneezing, and breathing difficulties."
"In severe cases, inhaling these particles may even cause chemical pneumonia, a serious lung infection. For people with asthma or other respiratory conditions, synthetic colours can be especially dangerous, triggering severe attacks and making it hard to breathe. The fine powder can enter the lungs and worsen existing health issues," he added.
Dr RR Dutta, HOD, internal medicine, Paras Health, Gurgaon, said, "It's important to highlight the potential health risks associated with the festival. Skin reactions like rashes, irritation, and allergic reactions are common due to prolonged exposure to chemical-based colours. Ophthalmologists have been stationed across several hospitals to address the growing number of eye-related problems, such as conjunctivitis or corneal abrasions caused by colour splashes."
"Individuals with pre-existing lung conditions, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, are at heightened risk of developing respiratory complications. The inhalation of toxic chemicals from synthetic colours can exacerbate these conditions, leading to difficulties in breathing or even triggering an asthma attack. It is crucial for people to take precautions, such as using natural colours, wearing protective gear, and avoiding excessive exposure, to prevent health issues during the celebration," he added.