Dockyard | Go alternate with Diabetes

Rains are creating a havoc and not just on the roads. Though it brings the much needed  relief from the oppressive heat of the harsh summer months, one can’t escape the water-borne diseases and fevers resulting from sudden changes in temperature. Hence, it is necessary that we take special care to keep our constitutions strong and stay healthy in this wet season.

Water-logged roads, pools of muddy water and overflowing sewage drains are a common sight in both metros and smaller towns. Stagnant water is the perfect breeding ground for Dengue and Malaria mosquitoes and several other viral pathogens. Remaining drenched for long periods and increased humidity can also lead to skin and fungal infections that need to be guarded against.

Here are some vital guidelines that will help you prevent illness and keep you safe through wet weather.

• Street food must be avoided for the havoc they may cause in your gut through unhygienic cooking conditions and rain water and contaminated air entering open or even partially open storage utensils. This is especially true for heavy and oily foods as digestion slows down owing to high humidity and causes bloating, acidity, gassy sensations or indigestion.
• Keep away from fizzy drinks  as they lower the mineral content of the body leading to lower secretion of vital enzymes.

This could result in further complications with an already weakened digestive system.

• It is important to keep one hydrated and fed during the monsoons despite the first two directions. Hence, it makes sense to carry a water bottle and home-made snacks around with you.

This practice will help you maintain your immunity to disease at this crucial juncture.

• Use insect repellents/ mosquito nets/ mosquito creams to keep yourself from being bitten by pathogen-bearing pests. Keep your surroundings as clean and dry as possible to avoid giving harmful insects a home and keep from spreading disease conditions in your neighborhood.
• One should try to avoid wading through puddles of water as far as possible as dirty water carries the risk of leptospirosis and other fungal infections that affect the feet and nails. If you have walked through rain water, remove socks or shoes as soon as possible and wash the parts of your body which have been exposed to dirty water with Bedtadine or other disinfectant, as soon as you can.
• Those suffering from asthma or other respiratory problem should avoid getting close to damp surfaces.
• Take a lot of vitamin C and herbal teas to boost your immunity.

The Writer is Dr Preetha GS , Associate Professor at International Institute of Health Management Research, New Delhi