Health Risks Due to Hottest Summer
Temperatures in India and around the world have been rising since the winter season ended. Even the IMD (India Meteorological Department) has warned of even hotter days ahead, with temperatures in many parts of India expected to be higher than normal during the March-May period. The month of February in India was the warmest since 1901. The temperature scale read 29.5 degrees Celsius as the highest average maximum temperature across the country.
While summer is typically a time for fun outdoor activities, this year it is important to recognize the potential health risks that come with the hottest summer temperatures.
High temperatures can cause a range of health problems, from mild heat exhaustion to life-threatening heatstroke. Let us explore the health risks due to hottest summers.
Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke
One of the most immediate and dangerous health risks of hot summer weather is heat exhaustion and heatstroke. These conditions occur when the body is exposed to high temperatures and cannot regulate its internal temperature. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness, headache, and heavy sweating, while symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Both conditions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Dehydration
Dehydration is another significant risk during hot summer weather. As the body sweats to regulate temperature, it loses water and electrolytes. Without proper hydration, dehydration can occur, leading to symptoms such as headaches, dry mouth, and fatigue. Severe dehydration can also result in kidney failure and other serious health complications.
Skin Damage
Prolonged exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays during hot summer weather can also cause skin damage, such as sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of skin cancer. It is essential to protect your skin by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours.
Air Pollution
Hot summer temperatures can also exacerbate air pollution, leading to health risks for those with respiratory conditions. High temperatures can increase the concentration of ground-level ozone, which can cause respiratory irritation and exacerbate asthma and other respiratory illnesses.
Prevention and Safety Tips
To protect yourself and your loved ones from the health risks associated with hot summer weather, consider implementing the following safety tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.
- Seek shade and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during peak hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, and breathable clothing.
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Use air conditioning or fans to cool indoor spaces.
- Check on vulnerable populations, such as elderly neighbors or those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and seek medical attention if needed.
Therefore by taking the necessary precautions and staying informed, you can enjoy the summer while also protecting your health and wellbeing.
Symptoms of Brain Stroke
A brain stroke, also known as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA), is a medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, resulting in damage to brain tissue. Strokes are one of the leading causes of disability and death, and prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
Some of the early signs or symptoms of a Brain Stroke include
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body : One of the most common signs of a brain stroke is sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, such as the face, arm, or leg. This symptom is usually sudden and may occur without warning. The weakness or numbness may be mild or severe, and it may affect one side of the body more than the other.
Trouble speaking or understanding speech : Another common symptom of a brain stroke is trouble speaking or understanding speech. This may include slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or a complete inability to speak. People who experience this symptom may also have difficulty understanding what others are saying to them.
Vision problems : People who experience a brain stroke may also have vision problems, such as blurred or double vision, or a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes. They may also have trouble seeing objects clearly or may experience visual disturbances, such as seeing flashing lights or zigzag lines.
Dizziness or loss of balance : Another common symptom of a brain stroke is dizziness or loss of balance. This may include feeling unsteady or lightheaded, or having trouble walking or standing up. People who experience this symptom may also feel as though the room is spinning around them.
Severe headache : A sudden, severe headache, often described as the worst headache of your life, may also be a sign of a brain stroke. The headache may be accompanied by vomiting or nausea, and it may be more severe when lying down.
It’s important to note that the symptoms of a brain stroke may vary depending on the part of the brain affected and the severity of the stroke. In some cases, people may experience only one or two of these symptoms, while in others, they may experience several. Additionally, some people may experience warning signs of a stroke, such as a transient ischemic attack (TIA), which is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain. TIAs are often called “mini-strokes” and may be a warning sign that a more severe stroke is imminent.
Time is of the essence when it comes to treating a stroke, and prompt treatment can help to minimize the damage to the brain and prevent long-term complications. Remember, “time lost is brain lost.”
Recognizing the symptoms or signs of a brain stroke is crucial for early detection and treatment. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Archana Hospitals is equipped with the latest technology to diagnose these symptoms and specialists are just a call away to answer any of your questions.
H3N2 Virus and Preventing Its Spread
The H3N2 virus is a subtype of the influenza A virus that can cause respiratory illness in humans. Symptoms of H3N2 virus infection are similar to those of other types of influenza, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, and fatigue. In severe cases, it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or even death, especially in the elderly, young children, and people with weakened immune systems.
The H3N2 virus is highly contagious and can spread from person to person through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s nose, mouth, or eyes. Therefore, taking steps to prevent its spread is essential to avoid getting sick and reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Preventing the Spread of H3N2 Virus :
Get vaccinated: Getting an annual flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from getting infected with the H3N2 virus or other influenza strains. The vaccine is recommended for everyone over the age of six months, especially those at high risk of complications from the flu, such as pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions.
Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues immediately.
Cover Your Mouth and Nose: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze. Dispose of used tissues immediately.
Avoid close contact with sick people: If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others. If you are healthy, try to stay away from people who are sick, especially if they have flu-like symptoms.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces: Use a disinfectant cleaner to wipe down commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, light switches, keyboards, and phones, to reduce the spread of germs.
Practice good health habits: Take care of your overall health by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. A healthy lifestyle can boost your immune system and reduce the risk of getting sick.
Therefore reduce the risk of getting infected by getting vaccinated and adopting other hygiene practices. Do not hesitate to call a Specialist at Archana Hospitals if you have further questions.
Heat & Humidity’s Impact on Blood Pressure
Heat and humidity can have a significant impact on your health, and one area where this is particularly evident is in a person’s blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It is an important indicator of cardiovascular health. High temperatures and humidity levels can cause the blood pressure to rise, which can increase the risk of developing health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
When a person is exposed to hot and humid weather, the body needs to work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. The blood vessels dilate to allow more blood to flow to the skin, which helps to dissipate heat. This can cause a drop in blood pressure initially, but as the body continues to work to cool itself down, the blood vessels can constrict, which can cause your blood pressure to rise.
Prolonged exposure to heat, especially in the absence of adequate hydration, can actually shoot up blood pressure.When we are exposed to heat, our bodies respond by increasing blood flow to the skin in order to facilitate heat loss through sweating. This increased blood flow can cause a drop in blood pressure, but it can also result in dehydration if we do not drink enough fluids to replace what we are losing through sweating. Dehydration can cause blood pressure to rise, as the body tries to compensate for the decreased volume of blood by constricting blood vessels and increasing the heart rate.
Humidity, or the amount of moisture in the air, can also affect blood pressure. People who are sensitive to changes in humidity may be more susceptible to fluctuations in blood pressure. This includes people with pre-existing hypertension or cardiovascular disease, as well as elderly individuals and those with certain medical conditions. When the air is humid, it can be more difficult for sweat to evaporate from the skin. This can cause the body to retain heat, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Additionally, high humidity levels can make it more difficult for the body to regulate its internal temperature, which can also contribute to an increase in blood pressure.
For people with existing cardiovascular disease, the effects of heat and humidity can be particularly dangerous. High temperatures can cause blood vessels to become more rigid and less able to expand and contract as needed. This can reduce blood flow to vital organs and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
If you are taking medication to manage your blood pressure, it’s important to be aware of how heat and humidity can affect your condition. Some medications, such as diuretics, can make you more susceptible to dehydration, which can exacerbate the effects of heat and humidity on your blood pressure.
If you live in a hot and humid climate, it is important to take steps to manage your blood pressure.
This may include
- staying hydrated,
- wearing loose, light-colored clothing,
- Avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
- It is also important to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, which can cause dehydration and raise blood pressure.
Heat and humidity can have a significant impact on blood pressure, but the exact effects can vary depending on a variety of factors, including individual sensitivity and pre-existing medical conditions. By staying hydrated, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and taking other steps to manage your blood pressure, you can help mitigate the effects of heat and humidity on your cardiovascular health. If you have concerns about your blood pressure, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider.
The Specialists at Archana Hospitals are just a call away to answer any of your questions. Stay safe and enjoy summer.
Bronchitis in Summer
Bronchitis is a respiratory illness that occurs when the bronchial tubes in your lungs become inflamed and produce excess mucus. This can lead to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. This condition can be caused by various factors such as bacteria, viruses, and irritants like cigarette smoke. While many people associate bronchitis with the cold winter months, it is possible to get bronchitis in the summer as well.
There are several potential causes of bronchitis in summer. One of the most common causes is exposure to irritants like pollen, dust, and air pollution. Hot weather can also be a trigger for people with asthma. Because people with asthma already have inflamed airways, weather is more likely to have an impact, as breathing in hot, humid air induces airway constriction in asthmatics. Air pollution from cars and factories can irritate your lungs and cause inflammation, leading to bronchitis. During the summer months, these irritants can be particularly prevalent, leading to increased inflammation in the bronchial tubes. Additionally, people who have allergies or asthma may be more susceptible to bronchitis in the summer due to increased exposure to triggers. Furthermore high humidity levels can create a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses, which can also lead to bronchitis.
Another potential cause of bronchitis in summer is viral infections. While respiratory viruses are more common in the winter months, they can still occur in the summer. This is particularly true for people who spend time in crowded places like airports, shopping centers, and public transportation.
The symptoms of bronchitis in summer are similar to those of bronchitis at any other time of year. These can include:- Coughing (with or without mucus)
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness or discomfort
- Fatigue
- Mild fever
In some cases, the symptoms of bronchitis can be severe, leading to difficulty breathing and other complications. If you experience severe symptoms or have a pre-existing medical condition that puts you at risk for complications, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
The treatment for bronchitis in summer is similar to the treatment for bronchitis at any other time of year. The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent complications. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend:
- Over-the-counter cough and cold medications.
- Prescription medications like bronchodilators or steroids.
- Inhalers or nebulizers to help open up the airways
- Rest and hydration.
- Avoiding irritants like cigarette smoke and air pollution.
- Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air.
In some cases, your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments, especially if your symptoms are severe or if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting bronchitis in summer. These include:
- Avoiding exposure to irritants like pollen, dust, and air pollution.
- Washing your hands regularly to reduce your risk of viral infections.
- Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated.
- Managing pre-existing medical conditions like allergies or asthma.
- Avoiding crowded places like airports or public transportation during peak travel times.
While bronchitis is more commonly associated with the winter months, it is possible to get bronchitis in summer as well. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bronchitis in summer, you can take steps to reduce your risk and manage your symptoms if they occur. If you are experiencing severe symptoms or have a pre-existing medical condition, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
Illnessness in Summer – Food Poisoning
Summer is the season of sunshine, warm weather, and outdoor activities. It’s also the time of year when the risk of food poisoning increases. As the summer heat sets in, it’s important to take extra care when it comes to food safety. The combination of heat and humidity creates the perfect conditions for bacteria to multiply, making it important to take extra precautions when handling and preparing food.
Food borne illnesses, commonly known as food poisoning, are more likely to occur during the summer months since warm temperatures promote bacterial growth.
What is Food Poisoning ?
Food poisoning is a foodborne illness caused by consuming contaminated food or water. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or toxins produced by these organisms. The symptoms of food poisoning can range from mild stomach discomfort to severe dehydration, organ damage, and even death in rare cases.
Common Causes of Food Poisoning in Summer
Bacteria: In the summer, bacteria can multiply quickly in warm and humid conditions. Bacteria like Salmonella, Campylobacter, and E. coli are commonly found in foods like raw meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products.
Viruses: Some viruses, like norovirus, can survive on surfaces and in water for a long time, making them easy to spread during the summer. Norovirus can be found in contaminated food, water, and surfaces.
Parasites: Parasites like Cryptosporidium and Giardia can survive in water, especially in lakes and rivers, which makes it easier to get infected during swimming.
High Temperatures: Bacteria thrive in warm temperatures, and the summer heat provides the perfect environment for them to grow and multiply.
Outdoor Dining: Summer is a time for outdoor picnics, weddings and get-togethers and other events where food is left out in the open for long periods. This can lead to contamination of food and increase the risk of food poisoning.
Undercooked Meat: Undercooked meat can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
Cross-Contamination: When preparing food, it’s essential to avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards, utensils, and plates for raw and cooked food.
Symptoms of Food Poisoning
The symptoms of food poisoning can vary depending on the type of organism that caused it. Common symptoms include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
- Dehydration
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last from a few hours to several days. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Preventing Food Poisoning in Summer
Cleanliness: Wash your hands with soap and water before handling food, after using the bathroom, and after touching animals. Keep kitchen surfaces and utensils clean and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Temperature: Keep food at the right temperature. Refrigerate perishable food within two hours of purchasing or cooking it. Cook meat, poultry, and eggs to their proper temperature to kill bacteria.
Hydration: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid drinking untreated water from lakes and rivers.
Cook Food Properly: Make sure to cook food thoroughly, especially meat, poultry, and seafood, to kill any harmful bacteria.
Food safety: Avoid cross-contamination by using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat, poultry, and seafood. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, and seafood.
Storage: Store food properly. Keep raw meat, poultry, and seafood separate from other foods in the refrigerator. Use perishable food within their expiration date.
Food poisoning can be a serious health risk during the summer months. However, by following the proper food safety measures, you can reduce your risk of infection. Keep your kitchen and cooking surfaces clean, wash your hands frequently, cook your food to the right temperature, and stay hydrated. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy the summer months without worrying about food poisoning.
You can always call up specialists at Archana Hospital if you would like to know more about staying safe in summer and prevent health issues that are common in summer.
DEHYDRATION
Summer is a season of fun and holidays, and it is a time for lots of outdoor activities. The warm weather provides opportunities to enjoy swimming, hiking, and games. However, with the heat, comes the risk of dehydration. The heat causes the body to lose fluids through sweating. When the body sweats, it loses both water and electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, which are essential for the proper functioning of the body. If these fluids are not replaced, dehydration can occur.
Dehydration can lead to serious health problems, so it is important to recognize the symptoms and take steps to prevent it.
Causes of Dehydration in Summer
Dehydration can be caused by a variety of factors, but in the summer, some of the most common causes include:
Hot weather: When the temperature rises, your body sweats to cool down. If you don’t replace the fluids you lose through sweat, you can quickly become dehydrated.
Humidity: When the air is humid, your sweat can’t evaporate as easily, which means your body has a harder time cooling down. This can lead to increased sweating and dehydration.
Exercise: When you exercise in the summer, you sweat more than usual, which means you need to drink more fluids to stay hydrated.
Alcohol and caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine can cause dehydration, so it’s important to limit your intake of these beverages in the summer.
Symptoms of Dehydration in Summer
The symptoms of dehydration can range from mild to severe, and they can include:
- Thirst
- Dry mouth and throat
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Rapid heartbeat
- Fainting
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to take action to prevent further dehydration.
Preventing Dehydration in Summer
The good news is that dehydration can be easily prevented. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated during the summer months:
Drink plenty of fluids: The best way to prevent dehydration is to drink plenty of fluids. Water is the best choice, but you can also drink sports drinks or coconut water to replenish electrolytes.
Avoid alcohol and caffeine: As mentioned earlier, alcohol and caffeine can cause dehydration, so it’s best to avoid them or limit your intake.
Eat hydrating foods: Fruits and vegetables are high in water content and can help you stay hydrated. Some examples include watermelon, cucumber, strawberries, and celery.
Dress appropriately: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that allows your skin to breathe. This can help prevent excessive sweating and dehydration.
Take breaks: If you’re spending time outdoors in the heat, take breaks in the shade or indoors to cool down and rehydrate.
Dehydration is a serious health risk in the summer, but it can be easily prevented by drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding alcohol and caffeine, eating hydrating foods, and taking breaks to cool down. If you experience any symptoms of dehydration, take action immediately to prevent further complications. Stay hydrated and stay safe this summer!
ASTHMA
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which can make breathing difficult. Asthma can be triggered by any number of things, including allergens, toxic substances, and emotional or traumatic events. A person who has been diagnosed with asthma often has allergies as well. An allergic reaction occurs when the person is exposed to a specific allergen that causes a reaction in the body. If the reaction is severe enough, it can trigger an asthma attack.
Causes of Asthma:
The exact cause of asthma is still unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People with a family history of asthma are more likely to develop the condition. Exposure to allergens and irritants, such as dust mites, pet dander, pollen, mold, smoke, and air pollution, can also trigger asthma symptoms. Infections, especially viral respiratory infections, can also cause asthma attacks.
There are several different types of asthma.
- Allergy induced asthma is triggered by exposure to allergens.
- Exercise-induced asthma is brought on by prolonged levels of intense activity.
- Some asthma attacks are triggered by uncontrolled bouts of coughing, while others may be triggered by stress or emotional upset.
- Occupational asthma often presents itself in the workplace and can be brought on by high levels of stress or exposure to certain types of chemicals.
Symptoms of Asthma:
- Wheezing: A high-pitched whistling sound when breathing
- Shortness of breath: Difficulty in breathing or feeling out of breath
- Chest tightness: Feeling of pressure or tightness in the chest
- Cough: Especially at night or early in the morning
These symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency, and can be triggered by different factors.
Treatment of Asthma:
Doctors treat asthma using both quick relief methods for acute attacks and long-term treatment methods as a means to control breathing patterns and keep acute attacks from occurring. Medications that dilate the bronchial tubes are used to open the airways when an attack is underway. Corticosteroids and other anti-inflammatory medications are used to keep the lungs and airways stabilized so that if an attack does occur, it is easily brought under control. Doctors will often prescribe both treatments. The long term medication will be used on a daily basis, while a rescue inhaler is prescribed to control acute attacks when they occur. Some of the common treatments include
Inhaled Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory medications that help reduce the swelling and mucus production in the airways.
Bronchodilators: These are medications that help relax the muscles around the airways, making it easier to breathe.
Immunomodulators: These are medications that modify the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma attacks.
Allergy medications: These medications are used to treat allergies that can trigger asthma symptoms.
Oxygen therapy: This is used in severe cases of asthma when breathing is difficult.
Prevention of Asthma: While asthma cannot be cured, there are steps that can be taken to prevent asthma attacks and manage symptoms. These include:
Avoiding triggers: Identify and avoid allergens and irritants that trigger asthma symptoms.
Taking medication as prescribed: Follow the treatment plan and take medication as prescribed by the doctor.
Regular check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with the doctor to monitor the condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed.
Staying active: Regular exercise can improve lung function and reduce the risk of asthma attacks.
Managing stress: Stress can trigger asthma attacks, so it is important to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
If you or someone you know is experiencing Asthma symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment and management plan, people with asthma can lead normal, healthy lives.
Archana Hospitals has a fully equipped Pulmonology Department ready to answer any of your questions.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is not able to produce enough thyroid hormone.It is especially prevalent among women, In fact, as many as 10% of women may have some degree of thyroid hormone deficiency.
Risk Factors for Hypothyroidism
Anyone can develop hypothyroidism, but you are at increased risk if you:
Are a woman
Are over the age of 50
Have a family history of thyroid disease or any autoimmune disorder
Have an autoimmune disorder, such as type 1 diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis
Have taken antithyroid medications (a treatment for hyperthyroidism) or have been treated with radioactive iodine
Have had thyroid surgery (partial or total thyroidectomy)
Have been exposed to radiation to your neck or upper chest area
Were pregnant or had a baby within the past six months.
Hypothyroidism Symptoms
Symptoms of hypothyroidism vary depending on how severe of a deficiency in thyroid hormone production you are experiencing, and the length of time your body has been deprived of the proper amount of hormone.
Symptoms also vary between people; what may be one person’s main complaint might not affect another person at all and vice versa.
Most people will have some combination of the symptoms listed below. Occasionally, a person with hypothyroidism will have no symptoms at all,or the symptoms are so subtle that they go unnoticed.
Fatigue
Weakness
Weight gain or increased difficulty losing weight
Coarse, dry hair
Dry, rough pale skin
Hair loss
Cold intolerance (you can’t tolerate cold temperatures like those around you)
Muscle cramps and frequent muscle aches
Constipation
Depression
Irritability
Memory loss
Abnormal menstrual cycles
Decreased libido
How Is Hypothyroidism Diagnosed?
Hypothyroidism can often be diagnosed with a simple blood test called a thyroid hormone panel (also known as thyroid function panel), which measures the amount of thyroid hormone in your blood. In some people, however, diagnosis is not so simple and more detailed tests are needed.
If you have one or more of these symptoms,or if you have already been diagnosed and treated for hypothyroidism and continue to have symptoms, it’s important to discuss it with your physician Left untreated, the symptoms of hypothyroidism will usually progress. This can lead to complications including birth defects, infertility, elevated “bad” (LDL) cholesterol, and mental health problems. Rarely, untreated hypothyroidism can result in severe, life-threatening depression, heart failure, or a type of coma called myxedema coma.
