Peak summer may still be a few weeks away, but the city is already sweltering. To stay cool, hydrated and healthy, doctors are advising residents to take a number of precautions. For the elderly, senior geriatrician V.S. Natarajan said taking a lot of fluids is vital.
“Elders are more prone to dehydration as their thirst sensation decreases. They need to have at least 2 to 3 litres of fluids daily, except those who have cardiac and kidney ailments. They also need to take salt, and even if they do not have much of an appetite, must eat and drink,” he said.
Fruits and fruit juices, buttermilk, lime and salt are recommended, he said. “Senior citizens are also more prone to constipation and must have fibre-rich foods,” he added. Fungal infections were common this season due to excessive sweating, and seniors must take care by keeping the affected area dry and using talcum powder, he said.
Bathing twice a day, wearing light, cotton clothes and avoiding going out during the hottest hours would be useful, said Dr. Natarajan, as syncope and heat strokes are a risk in this weather.
Residents must also try to eat green and watery vegetables, said Jaichitra Suresh, consultant physicain, SIMS Hospital, Vadapalani. “Certain infections, skin problems and heat-related strokes generally go up in this season. We also tend to see chicken pox and diarrhoeal disease,” she said.
Children must avoid fatty foods, said Padma Appaji, consultant paediatrician, Vijaya Group of Hospitals. “Cleanliness is very important. Children do not need medicated soaps, but can take a shower twice a day. Drinking water has to be boiled, and they should preferably have home-cooked food.”
Published - April 18, 2017 12:54 am IST
