Common Monsoon Health Issues and Precautions
For many, the monsoon season signifies delicious khichuri, a traditional dish of rice and lentils! However, the accumulated water and muddy conditions on the streets make venturing out unappealing. Moreover, this season brings a surge in various diseases such as typhoid, hepatitis, malaria, and dengue. Common stomach upsets and allergy-related colds and coughs are also prevalent. What steps should you take to avoid these health problems?
Tips from Medical Experts
Waterborne Diseases
Dr. Arindam Biswas, an Indian physician, highlights that waterborne diseases increase during the damp monsoon weather. Stagnant water in many areas merges with pond, river, and stream levels. Sometimes, dirty stagnant water from the streets contaminates drinking water pipes.
Preventive Measure:
- Boil drinking water. Boiling water helps everyone from children to the elderly avoid diarrhea or bacterial problems. When outside, always buy bottled water.
Avoid Self-Medication
If you have a fever or any stomach issues, avoid taking antibiotics without consulting a doctor. Diet plays a crucial role in avoiding stomach diseases.
Dietary Tips:
- Avoid foods with excessive oil and spices. Even when eating outside, ensure the food’s cleanliness.
Boosting Immunity with Fruits and Vegetables
Nutritionists recommend consuming fruits and vegetables to enhance immunity. However, during the monsoon, these can become breeding grounds for germs.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid eating cut fruits sold by the roadside.
- Steer clear of vegetables that grow in water. If possible, soak vegetables in a pinch of potassium permanganate, rinse them in clean water, and then cook them thoroughly.
Protecting Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Stagnant water during the monsoon is a breeding ground for mosquitoes, leading to diseases like dengue, malaria, and chikungunya.
Protective Measures:
- Use mosquito nets to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
- Avoid using chemical sprays or incense, as they can cause breathing problems. Instead, opt for mosquito repellent oils or creams.
Conclusion
Taking these precautions during the monsoon season can help you stay healthy and avoid common health issues. Drink boiled water, be mindful of your diet, avoid self-medication, and protect yourself from mosquitoes to enjoy a safe and healthy rainy season.