Q. Beyond heatstroke: What are some surprising summer health hazards I should be aware of?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Heatstroke is a major concern, but scorching summer days in India bring other health hazards that can catch you off guard. Here are some surprising summer health risks to be aware of:
1. Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance:
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Causes: Sweating heavily due to heat and humidity, coupled with inadequate fluid intake, can deplete your body's water and electrolytes (minerals like sodium and potassium).
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Symptoms: While thirst is a common sign, dehydration can also cause fatigue, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, and dark urine. In severe cases, it can lead to seizures or even coma.
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Prevention: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Opt for cooling drinks like coconut water, lassi (yogurt drink), or buttermilk, which replenish electrolytes. Avoid sugary drinks that can worsen dehydration.
2. Foodborne Illness:
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Causes: Improper food handling during summer picnics, street food consumption, or improper storage during power cuts can lead to bacterial growth and foodborne illness.
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Symptoms: Upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, and fever are common.
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Prevention: Be cautious about street food, especially during power outages. Ensure food is cooked thoroughly and stored hygienically. Wash your hands frequently and avoid consuming perishable food that's been left out for extended periods.
3. Skin Issues:
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Causes: Excessive sun exposure, sweating, and dry winds can lead to sunburn, prickly heat rash, and worsened acne.
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Symptoms: Sunburn causes redness, pain, and peeling. Prickly heat rash presents as itchy red bumps. Increased sweating can clog pores and worsen acne.
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Prevention: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher liberally and reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming. Wear protective clothing like loose cotton fabrics and hats. Use a gentle, sweat-proof moisturizer and consider light makeup to avoid clogging pores.
4. Monsoon Misery:
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Causes: The sudden arrival of monsoon rains can lead to an increase in mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria.
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Symptoms: Dengue can cause high fever, severe headache, muscle and joint pain, and a rash. Malaria symptoms include chills, fever, sweating, and headache.
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Prevention: Use mosquito repellents containing DEET. Wear long, loose clothing during peak mosquito hours (dawn and dusk). Consider using mosquito nets while sleeping.
5. Sleep Disruption:
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Causes: Hot and humid nights can make it difficult to fall asleep and stay cool, leading to sleep deprivation.
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Symptoms: Fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and daytime sleepiness are common signs.
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Prevention: Ensure proper ventilation in your sleeping area. Take a cool shower before bed. Use breathable fabrics for bedsheets and nightwear. Avoid caffeine and electronics close to bedtime.
By being aware of these surprising summer health hazards and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy a safe and healthy summer season in India. Remember, staying hydrated, practicing good hygiene, protecting your skin from the sun, and getting enough sleep are key to staying cool and healthy during the hot months.
Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Answered by Secondmedic ExpertDealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:
1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.
2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.
3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.
4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.
5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.
7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.
Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.
Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.
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