Mumbai: The abrupt withdrawal of the monsoon, followed by soaring temperatures and high humidity, is creating challenging health conditions across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, prompting doctors to urge residents to take extra precautions against seasonal illnesses and heat-related complications.
Medical experts at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road have warned that sudden weather fluctuations can significantly increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, viral infections, respiratory illnesses, gastrointestinal infections, and the worsening of chronic medical conditions. They say children, senior citizens, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable during this period.
According to doctors, the sharp transition from cool, rainy weather to hot and humid conditions places additional stress on the body’s natural temperature regulation mechanisms. This can lead to fluctuations in blood pressure, increased risk of cardiac complications, worsening of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, urinary tract infections, dizziness, and fatigue.
Children are also at greater risk of developing viral fevers, diarrhoea, stomach infections, and heat-related illnesses due to their developing immune systems and higher susceptibility to dehydration.
Dr. Jinendra K. Jain, Consultant Diabetologist and Physician at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, said rapid weather changes can have a significant impact on people living with hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disorders, and respiratory illnesses.
“Senior citizens are particularly susceptible to dehydration and heat stress because their body’s cooling mechanisms are less efficient. Similarly, young children can lose fluids quickly and may develop fever, diarrhoea, or exhaustion if adequate hydration is not maintained. People should not ignore symptoms such as persistent fatigue, dizziness, breathlessness, chest discomfort, high fever, or sudden fluctuations in blood pressure, as early medical evaluation can prevent serious complications,” he said.
Doctors recommend that people remain well hydrated by drinking adequate fluids throughout the day, consume freshly prepared balanced meals, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight during peak afternoon hours, and wear light, breathable cotton clothing.
People with chronic illnesses are advised to continue taking prescribed medications, regularly monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms worsen.
With unpredictable weather patterns becoming increasingly common, Wockhardt Hospitals has urged citizens to remain vigilant, adopt preventive health measures, and seek timely medical consultation to minimise the risk of seasonal illnesses and weather-related complications.