PREPARING AHEAD FOR MONSOON MALADIES

As the month of May draws to a close and the heat is at its height, the prevailing heat wave conditions remind us that rainy relief is near.

But it is wise to remember that allergies, especially pollen allergies, tend to intensify with the rain, and the days preceding the Monsoon can be allergy-prone too. This is due to the sudden dip in temperature and the increase in humidity, along with a significant rise in pollen, dust and fungi that infest the air you breathe.

Those with dust allergies, prepare to block out dust with a handy mask, as pre-monsoon dust storms are common, and can cause acute discomfort. Skin and eye infections are also widely prevalent both during the monsoon and the days leading up to it. Keep away from conjunctivitis by washing your eyes often and assiduously cleaning eye wear, and stave off skin rashes and itching with a handy anti-bacterial talc.

Indigestion and stomach problems rise quite sharply during the monsoon and also in the period leading up to it. Avoid drinking fresh juices from roadside vendors and definitely do not eat raw salads sold outside, as diarrhoea, typhoid and cholera are common illnesses of the rainy season.

Some tips to prevent and handle monsoon allergies:

Firstly, consult your Doctor and don’t resort to self-medication, especially for widely prevalent acne and eczema which many complain of during the monsoon.

Skin allergies: Symptoms appear on the hands, upper back, feet and other exposed areas of the body. They are caused by the rains and are best controlled with Antihistamines prescribed by your Doctor. You may also control the symptoms with anti-bacterial talc.

Hyperpigmentation:

This humidity related skin disorder is characterised by dull, dark patches that appear on the skin, especially the face. Laser therapies and medication are useful modes of treatment.

Facial Folliculitis:       

This condition is characterised by inflammation of the hair follicles that leads to hair breakage during the rains. It is mainly caused by fungal and bacterial infections, primarily due to excessive humidity, sweating, dehydration, etc. Control/prevent this condition by taking regular baths and keeping your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water.