17 Summertime is perfect for picnics, pool parties, and outdoor enjoyment. However, summertime also comes with summer diseases. Heat and humidity create the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and cause summer diseases. The torrid heat of the Indian summers only makes things worse with the sun beating down for months. This article will explore some of the most common summer diseases and how to cure them.
Summer is when we are most likely to suffer from various diseases, from heat stroke to hepatitis A. So what can we do to protect ourselves and our families? Here are some tips from our in-house experts on curing and preventing summer illnesses.
It is the most common summer illness and, unfortunately, affects a lot of birds and animals too. Drink lots of water to avoid dehydration, and leave out some water for the poor creatures. Coconut water, lassi, lemonade (nimbu paani), and watery fruits like watermelons and tomatoes are your friends to prevent dehydration. Dehydration can cause skin and urinary infections, so good sanitation can make all the difference from bacterial infections.
Sunburn is a condition that occurs when the skin is exposed to too much sunlight. It causes the skin to become red, swollen, and painful. In extreme cases, it can lead to more serious problems such as skin cancer. Avoiding excessive exposure to UV radiation is the best way to protect yourself from this summer sickness.
Stay out of the sun during peak hours, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen. You can do a few things to help relieve the pain and discomfort if you get sunburned. These include taking a cool bath, applying aloe vera to the affected area, and using first aid burn medicine like Burnol.
Heat rashes are a common sight during blistering heat, particularly amongst children. Heat rashes are itchy and irritating, caused by sweat and improper clothing, and bacterial infections that ensue. You can avoid heat rashes by wearing pure cotton clothes and having a cold bath regularly, preventing the growth of bacteria and proper sanitation. If you have heat rashes, you can use baking powder on the skin to relieve itchiness and remove moisture or use talcum powder, which is highly soothing.
The heat makes food go bad very quickly and creates the perfect conditions for bacterial growth. If you regularly eat outside, you can fall victim to food poisoning. It is a summer disease that can cause nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and many other digestive problems. Cook and consume food quickly, and avoid street food and raw or uncooked items.
If you have food poisoning, have ORS handy, and if it is too severe, contact a doctor. Cleaning and sanitizing the kitchen and other areas are one of the best preventive measures for avoiding food poisoning.
It is also featured on the list as a summer disease caused by a bacteria called Hepatitis C. It affects the liver and causes the build-up of toxins in the body. It results in dark-colored urine, yellowed skin, or eyes which are telltale signs of jaundice and should always be treated by a medical professional. Jaundice can be pretty dangerous, so it is important to sanitize regularly and wash your hands and any food that you eat. This prevents its spread.
This summer sickness is caused by a combination of extreme dehydration and heat. When the body cannot maintain its internal temperature, it results in heat stroke or sunstroke. Heat stroke is very dangerous and potentially fatal, often causing brain damage, similar to a stroke. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid going out when temperatures cross 40 degrees Celsius and try to stay as cool as possible. If you feel dizziness, headache, or a high heart rate, retreat to a shady area and try to cool off.
Usually, these are pollen-related and triggered by plants and flowers at the start of summer. Keep antihistamines handy, and wear a mask whenever possible. The best practice is to avoid pollen as much as possible. You can also use a sanitation service to clean and purify the areas in your locality or invest in an air purifier at home.
Summer diseases are best cured by prevention and a fair bit of awareness. By following some simple tips, and good, healthy sanitation practices like washing hands, eating clean food and appropriate physical contact, you can avoid getting sick in the first place. If you do get sick, there are several effective treatments available.
You can get rid of summer diseases and enjoy a healthy summer with a little effort. The best way to protect yourself is to avoid excessive sun and heat exposure. If you must be outside, wear loose, light clothing and headgear like a cap, drink plenty of fluids and avoid dehydration. Finally, if you get sick, see a doctor as soon as possible.
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