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Heat and dust plays havoc onDelhiites health

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14 May 2012 Hindustan Times (Delhi) HT Correspondent htreporters@hindustantimes.com

NEW DELHI: The dust storms may have cooled down the climes, bringing respite from the torrid

heat, but they are also taking a toll on children, elderly and those prone to respiratory tractinfections.

Hospitals and clinics in the city have reported a sudden rise in cases of wheezing, severe cough,

chest congestion, shortness of breath, fever, etc. all symptoms of respiratory tract infections

affecting mainly children and the elderly."The irritants in the air trigger various respiratory tract infections that we call naso-bronchial

infections. The number of such infections rise in such weather. I examine about 20 such people

daily in my OPD," said a senior doctor with the department of medicine at AIIMS.Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable.

"Dust particles create obstruction in the airway and infect lungs in children. However, the extent

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of infection varies from case to case," said Dr Krishan Chugh, paediatric pulmonologist at Sir

Ganga Ram Hospital.He said the past two weeks have seen a 100 per cent rise in the number of cases because of the

dusty weather.As a precautionary measure, doctors advise people to avoid smoke and going to areas with high

dust content, avoid inhaling fragrant sprays or mosquito/insect repellents.

Dust allergies are usually self-limiting and get better soon after the weather clears; but in

severe cases doctors prescribe anti-allergic drugs.WATER-BORNE DISEASESThe risk of water-borne diseases also becomes high in such weather, with the heat prompting a

higher intake of fluids. Diseases such as stomach flu, gastroenteritis, jaundice, typhoid, etc arecommon during summer.

"One should avoid eating and drinking at the road-side eateries. As far as possible, eat well-

cooked food and drink bottled water and only fresh fruit juices extracted at home. Avoid using ice indrinks. These precautions will minimise the risk of contracting stomach infection," said Dr MP

Sharma, head of department of gastroenterology, Rockland Hospital.Eating light food such as khichdi in small quantity, with lots of fluids such as butter milk, lime

water, coconut water, etc. helps in controlling the symptoms. In some cases, anti-biotic is also

given to treat the infection.EYE INFECTION

This weather is equally harmful for the eyes, be it dusty winds or scorching sun; eyes aresensitive and are prone to infection. Conjunctivitis and burning sensation in the eyes are caused

because of dust particles and prolonged exposure to sun. Wearing wide-rimmed sunglasses whilegoing out is the best way to protect eyes.

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