Owing to the onset of summer and soaring temperature, city-based doctors are seeing an increase in the number of food-borne and water-borne infections over the past two weeks. Several hospitals have also reported a spike in the number of skin diseases and sunburn cases.
Dr. Ambanna Gowda, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital acknowledged that there is a rise in the number of food-borne and water-borne infections, viral infections like cold and sore throat, and chicken pox. He also said several patients were diagnosed with fungal infection because of sweating in the armpits and groin area.
“Skin irritation and sunburns are also some of the cases that we see during early summer. Younger children and elderly people may have cases of dehydration, and low urine output issues. People who are already on medication or are having a heart condition should manage water balance in their day-to-day life. If they observe low urine output, they should consult the doctor immediately,” he said.
The Epidemic Disease Hospital has seen an increase in the number of acute gastroenteritis. While they would see around two cases each day, over the past week, they are seeing nearly 10 cases. Ansar Ahmed, Medical Superintendent of Epidemic Disease Hospital, said, “People end up eating cut fruits and fruit juices that are stored for a long period, and this makes them prone to infections.”
Bindumathi P.L., Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, said that the heat also makes people vulnerable to diarrhoea, measles and chicken pox. “Water contamination is one of the major causes leading to the spread of several diseases, such as typhoid, gastroenteritis and cholera,” she said.
Due to excessive heat, people may suffer from dehydration leading to electrolyte imbalance as well. “To avoid dehydration, people can consume lime water with a pinch of salt, as it will assist in maintaining the electrolyte balance,” said Dr. Bindumathi.
Anoop Amarnath, Chief of Clinical Services, Manipal Hospitals said that there has been a 15% to 20% increase in gastroenteritis cases this month compared to the previous month. “Children and senior citizens are more susceptible as they have a weaker immune system,” he said.
( This concludes the three-part series on summer-related problems )
