Monsoon is a season that offers us Indians respite from the sweltering heat. Even though the rainy season bestows us with soothing rains and pleasant weather, one thing that often goes unnoticed is, the toll that monsoon takes on our health.
The rainy season brings with itself multiple health problems such as flu, cough, cold, poor digestion, body ache, cholera, dysentery, jaundice, etc. The damp conditions become an easy breeding ground for mosquitoes and increase the risk of diseases such as malaria and dengue. Overall, there is an increase in bacterial, viral, and fungal infections due to the high humidity in the atmosphere.
GOOD HYGIENE PRACTICES ARE ESSENTIAL FOR BETTER HEALTH IN MONSOON
To avoid the health problems associated with the rainy weather, you need to maintain good hygiene practices. It is also important to be alert because the health infrastructure in our country is already stressed due to the Novel Coronavirus. And, you certainly do want to put an undue burden on our doctors with preventable health problems.
- NO OUTSIDE FOOD
Due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic, a large number of people are focusing on home-cooked food. This practice should be encouraged during the monsoon season as well. The restaurants may be open for business but your health should not be compromised just for the sake of convenience and taste. Pre-cut and raw food can lead to food poisoning. Also, drinking contaminated water can lead to various water-borne diseases such as cholera, typhoid, dysentery, viral gastroenteritis, etc. - CONSUME FRUITS AND VEGETABLES
The arrival of monsoon doesn’t mean staying away from fresh produce. You can still consume fresh, seasonal vegetables/fruits along with pulses and cereals. Do not opt for highly-processed packaged food and choose to eat fresh, steaming hot food whenever possible. Be extra cautious while using green leafy vegetables. Wash them thoroughly with warm water to remove dirt and dust. - ENSURE CLEAN SURROUNDINGS
A pest-free home is a healthy home. Keep your home and surroundings clean to avoid the entry of pests in your home. Do not store rainwater in open containers. Remove stagnant water from water coolers, flower pots, and other places that can prove to be a breeding ground for mosquitoes and flies. Use mosquito nets and mosquitoes-repellant creams & sprays to keep diseases at bay. - STAY HYDRATED
The summer season makes us thirsty but the cold weather in monsoon often makes us avoid water. However, humidity can lead to increased sweating and it is essential to consume water regularly. Drink at least 3-4 liters of water daily to flush out toxins naturally. However, make sure you are drinking clean water without any impurities. Boil the water to kill pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Let the water settle for a while and filter it through a clean cloth before drinking. - WASH YOUR HANDS OFTEN
The global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us essential hygiene habits. Wearing face masks and washing your hands often will not only improve your chances against fighting Novel Coronavirus, but it will also help you from common bacteria and viruses. Make sure you wash your hands immediately after coming home from outside. And, do avoid touching your face to reduce the chances of infection.
ADDITIONAL TIPS TO BOOST IMMUNITY DURING MONSOON
- If you get wet in the monsoon, shower immediately and change into a fresh set of clothes. Avoid cold, coughs, and fever by keeping your body dry.
- Include Vitamin C in your diet to boost immunity.
- Eat in moderation. Though very tempting, avoid fried, oily food items. Opt for lighter foods to avoid heaviness, bloating, and indigestion.
- Do not ignore routine medical checkups. They can help to detect underlying health issues and allow you to get timely medical treatment.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Your health is in your hands! Practice healthy hygiene habits, maintain clean surroundings, and visit your trusted gastro doctor for routine medical checkups and post-operative care. Remember, with preventative measures, we can win the battle against common diseases that accompany the monsoon season as well as reduce the chances of getting infected with Novel Coronavirus.
Remember prevention is better than cure!
Monsoon may increase your chances of getting ill and cause you digestive distress. If you are troubled by digestive ailments regularly, it can be a sign of a serious disease. Consult a reputed HPB and GI surgeon to get to the root cause of your troubles. Whether it is a gallbladder surgery, liver surgery, or GI cancer treatment, a surgical gastroenterologist can help you with immediate medical treatment.
