Different respiratory diseases during monsoon and how to combat them, explains an expert. (Image: iStock)
Respiratory problems are aggravated during the monsoon season due to factors such as dust mites, pollen, dirt and humidity in the air. Therefore, people are at a higher risk of developing respiratory infections such as acute rhinopharyngitis (common cold), pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks during the rainy season.
Monsoon is synonymous with respiratory infections in people of all ages. This is because the air is filled with moisture, dust particles, dirt and pollutants that can interfere with the lungs and airway passage.
A large number of people tend to suffer from acute rhinopharyngitis (common cold), pneumonia, bronchitis and asthma attacks. The change in climate and temperature creates a perfect atmosphere for germs and bacteria to thrive. It is essential to take the utmost care of your respiratory tract. healthespecially during monsoon. People are advised to maintain respiratory hygiene by disposing of used tissues, washing hands frequently and wearing masks when necessary to reduce direct exposure to airborne pathogens and toxins.
Times Now Digital spoke to Dr Samir Garde, Director, Department of Pulmonology and Lung Transplantation, Gleneagles Hospital, to understand these diseases and how to combat them.
Common respiratory infections during the rainy season
Acute Rhinopharyngitis (Common Cold): It is one of the most common types of respiratory infection that people suffer from during the monsoon season. The change in weather can trigger colds due to multiple strains of viruses. A person can easily catch the common cold regardless of his or her age. It includes symptoms like wheezing, sore throat, cough, chill, headache, and runny nose. The symptoms usually start getting relief within a few days after taking necessary precautions and medicines prescribed by the doctor.
- Pneumonia:It is a serious lung infection that causes discomfort and difficulty breathing. It causes the air sacs to fill with pus or fluid. The risk of developing pneumonia increases significantly during monsoon due to increased humidity in the environment. People are advised to be careful as it can be transmitted through the mucus and saliva of the infected person.
- Bronchitis:This causes severe inflammation of the airways in the lungs. Due to this inflammation, you may experience coughing and nasal congestion, making it difficult to breathe. Bronchitis causes the airways to narrow and restricts airflow to the lungs.
- Asthma attacks:Monsoon can exacerbate asthma symptoms due to environmental factors and lifestyle Factors. Increased humidity and air pressure can irritate the airways and make breathing more difficult than usual. Strong, windy winds during monsoons can stir up pollen and dust mites into the air. These particles can be easily inhaled as they are usually smaller in size, causing breathing difficulty. Make sure you have your inhaler handy to avoid further complications. People suffering from pneumonia should avoid close contact with pets as their dander and saliva can exacerbate symptoms.
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