Health Tips To Beat Summer Diseases
By Dr. Kush Ohri in Internal Medicine
Jun 13, 2019
Health Tips to Stay Safe from Common Summer Diseases
As temperatures soar past 45°C in Delhi/NCR during peak summer months, the risk of heat-related illnesses also rises. Intense heatwaves, high humidity, and poor hydration can lead to multiple health issues such as heatstroke, dehydration, food poisoning, and more. However, with timely precautions and some simple lifestyle changes, you can stay healthy even in the harshest summer days.
According to Dr. Kush Ohri (Senior Physician), “Maintaining good health in summer starts with mindful eating, proper hydration, and avoiding common triggers that cause infections.”
Here’s a guide to some of the most common summer diseases and how to prevent them:
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Common Summer Diseases and Their Symptoms
Heat Stroke (Sunstroke)
Prolonged exposure to the sun can raise your body temperature dangerously, leading to Hyperthermia. Symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion or unconsciousness (in severe cases)
- Dehydration
Excessive sweating during summer can lead to dehydration if water intake is insufficient. Signs of dehydration include:
- Dry mouth
- Extreme thirst
- Dark yellow urine
- Fatigue or lightheadedness
- Food Poisoning
The hot and humid climate creates ideal conditions for bacterial growth in food, increasing the risk of contamination. Consuming stale or improperly stored food can result in foodborne illnesses with symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Typhoid
Caused by contaminated food and water, typhoid presents symptoms such as:
- High fever
- Weakness
- Muscle aches
- Abdominal discomfort
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Sunburn
Overexposure to UV rays can result in painful, red, and itchy skin. If left untreated, sunburn can cause skin peeling or blistering.
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Jaundice
Often triggered by consuming contaminated water or food, jaundice leads to yellowing of the skin and eyes, along with:
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Dark-colored urine
- Eye Infections
The dusty, dry summer air can irritate the eyes, causing redness, itching, and soreness. Dirty hands or contaminated water can further increase the risk of conjunctivitis or other infections.
- Waterborne Diseases
Diseases like diarrhea, dysentery, and cholera are also commonly seen in summer due to the consumption of unsafe drinking water.
Essential Tips to Prevent Summer Illnesses
Stay Hydrated:
Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Include refreshing drinks like lemonade, buttermilk, coconut water, and herbal iced teas in your routine.
Choose Fresh, Clean Foods:
Always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly. Opt for homemade meals and avoid consuming raw, undercooked, or street foods, especially during peak heat hours.
Practice Hand Hygiene:
Wash your hands properly before eating and after using the washroom to reduce infection risks.
Eat Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables:
Incorporate hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, mangoes, and oranges to help maintain fluid balance and provide essential nutrients.
Protect Your Eyes:
Rinse your eyes with clean, cool water regularly. If experiencing irritation, consult a healthcare provider.
Avoid Direct Sun Exposure:
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothes. Protect your skin from sunburn by wearing appropriate clothing whenever you step outside.Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.
Use Sun Protection Accessories:
While traveling or spending time outdoors, wear sunglasses, caps, or hats to shield your face and eyes from harsh sunlight.
Summer may bring soaring temperatures, but staying healthy during this season is completely manageable with the right habits. Hydration, hygiene, and protective measures against sun exposure form the foundation of summer health care.
If you continue to experience symptoms of dehydration, heatstroke, or infections, seek medical attention promptly without any delay.
Stay cool, stay safe!
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