HE monsoon has come. Common ailments like diarrhoea, gastroenteritis and certain skin disorders are common during this season. Due to high humidity, certain chronic diseases like asthma and arthritis also get aggravated. During heavy rains, contamination of water also gives rise to many diseases. Collection of water in potholes and elsewhere serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes which spread malaria and filarial. Flies, too, breed in abundance and become carriers of diseases like cholera and typhoid. Going out in rain can lead to cold, cough, fever and pain in the joints. Sudden change in temperature can precipitate viral infections.Unhealthy, exposed food may lead to gastroenteritis. The patient may complain of vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and abdominal pains. To avoid these problems, following things may be kept in mind:
- Use boiled water.
- As far as cleanliness of the house is concerned, the important thing to keep in mind is to ward of dampness. When the sun is shining the doors and windows of the house should be opened wide to let the heat and light enter the room.
- Carpets should be avoided.
- Wear loose clothing, and avoiding synthetics.
- Never wear wet shoes.
- Keep all food items and water well covered.
- Always wash your hands before handling food.
- Use appropriate chemicals to ward of flies and mosquitoes.
- Avoid eating outside during rainy season.
Leafy vegetables should be washed or soaked in salt water before cooking.
Red pustules of the size of mustard grains appear on the body, especially the forehead, chest, abdomen and back. Curd applied to the affected areas before a bath gives relief to prickly heat.
Boils are caused by bacterial infection in the roots of the hair. A red swelling forms around hair and causes a great deal of irritation and scratching. To subside the growth in its preliminary stages apply kali jeera powder with water and applied over the infected parts.
Rain water is good for the skin. Use light moisturiser of lotion, but not cream to protect the skin from strong winds during monsoon. Take a hot bath with a few drops of
antiseptic. Use antifungal talcum powder.
Eat what you like, but watch out for calories. A cup of hot lemon tea or clear soup will also help assuage your hunger without putting calories into your body.
A glass of water half-an-hour before meals aids digestion and curtails desire for more food.
To avoid malaria, take two tablets of metacalfin once a week.
During diarrhoea put your stomach at rest. Drink only clear liquids until you begin to feel better for as long 24 hours. Begin eating mild foods, such as rice, dry toast and bananas. Avoid spicy food, raw fruit, alcohol, coffee and dairy products for three days.
In arthritis avoid activities that put weight or strain on the joint for few days. Take short breaks from your regular activities throughout the day. If the joint is not swollen, apply moist heat for 20 to 30 minutes two to three times a day. Do not apply heat to swollen inflamed joint.
Avoid perfumes if suffering from asthma.
— Dr Anil Dheer
