Mumbaikars feeling the (October) heat

The early onset of October heat is taking a toll on Mumbaikars, with doctors getting an increasing number of dehydration cases. Excessive weakness, bodyache and nausea are some of the symptoms seen in those approaching physicians. And with Navratri on, and humidity level being high (80-90%), doctors have advised people to stay hydrated.

The rising humidity and temperatures are also giving rise to cases of lung infection and viral fever, say doctors.

"A lot of people feel under the weather when the season changes. We are getting a lot of cases of throat and respiratory tract infection along with dehydration," said Dr Pratit Samdhani, general physician, Jaslok Hospital.

Doctors are urging people to spend minimum time out in the heat and use sun protection when they venture out. They have warned that more people may be attacked by more serious ailments, such as dehydration, gastroenteritis and jaundice.

Dr Subodh Kedia, family physician from Bandra, said, "Low blood pressure, muscle cramps and dehydration are the common symptoms. People should hydrate themselves while doing garba. It is hot and humid, and excessive sweating is leading to imbalance of electrolytes in the body."

Doctors say it is important to keep oneself hydrated as deficiency of electrolytes can lead to severe muscle cramps and dehydration. According to the doctors, most of the low blood pressure and muscle cramp cases are seen in people who are into field work, like marketing professionals. "It is the most common ailment that can be easily avoided. People should continuously hydrate themselves and ensure that while doing so they don't drink cold drinks etc," added Kedia.

Doctors are also seeing more cases of gastroenteritis as people prefer to eat outside food and drink unhygienic juices.

Dr Anil Ballani, consulting physician at Lilavati hospital, said, "Viruses thrive in hot and humid weather and that's why we are seeing a rise in cases of respiratory infection and gastroenteritis."

Doctors say preventive measures against such common ailments are simple and easy to follow. "The first rule is to drink safe water; people should boil water and drink it. They should avoid cold water or soft drinks, especially ice in juices as it is extremely unhygienic," said Ballani.

Consumption of ice creams, cold water and soft drinks, especially after coming home after being out in the sun, leads to sore throat and cold.

Ballani said equal importance must be laid on eating hygienic home food.