In India, diseases such as dengue, chikungunya, and Japanese encephalitis are common during the monsoon season. In addition, the overcast and humid conditionscan trigger certainrespiratoryconditions among people with allergies.

Here are some common respiratorydisorders during the rainy season.

Cold

The common cold affects your respiratory system. The symptoms include body aches, general fatigue and sometimes fever. The condition is characterised by bouts of sneezing and a runny nose obstructing smooth respiration. Usually, it gets okay in 3-4 days. However, if the symptoms persist, you may consult a doctor.

Viral fever

The virus is a dreaded word these days. Apart from the COVID-19-causing coronavirus, there are many viruses surrounding us at all times. A viral infection is common during monsoon. Fatigue, body ache and nausea are the usual symptoms of viral fever. However, it also causes common respiratory hazards like cough and running nose. Compared to the common cold, the need for a medical consultation is more in the case of viral fever.

Your doctor may prescribe you some over-the-counter drugs including antihistamine, decongestant and antipyretic. In severe cases, you may have to take antibiotics. Viral fevers are contagious and may last from 3 to 7 days.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease. Its treatment often warrants the need for medical insurance. Asthma can cause problems across the year, particularly during the monsoon and winter months. Rainfall increases the pollen levels in the environment, which can flare up asthmatic conditions. It causes internal muscles to narrow down the airways and leads to inflammation of bronchial tubes. This triggers an asthma attack.

Patients are advised to avoid damp conditions and increase sun exposure to avoid asthma flare-ups. Medical support and home remedies are crucial to avoiding asthma-related issues.

COPD

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a group of diseases that affect the lungs, causing narrowed airways and breathing difficulties. Shortness of breath, wheezing and cough are the common symptoms. Patients use inhalers and steroids to get relief.

Any kind of extreme weather conditions can trigger COPD. In monsoons, windy conditions can increase pollen and dust levels in the air, causing breathing difficulties among COPD patients. During heavy showers and thunderstorms, pollen grains get attracted to storm clouds and float in the wind at the ground level. When inhaled by COPD patients it can cause respiratory issues. COPD patients use humidifiers and air-conditioning to avoid the hot and humid conditions that cause COPD conditions to flare up.

Coronavirus

It is almost inevitable to not talk about this infection while talking about medical issues in general. Coronavirus, specifically COVID-19, can cause a problem at any time of the year, including monsoon. The prominentrespiratory symptoms of COVID-19 include dry cough, sore throat and difficulty or shortness of breath.

COVID test, self-quarantine and adequate care and medication are needed to avoid the increase or spread of the infection.

Avoid respiratory issues during monsoon

To avoid these and other common respiratory issues during monsoon, you should take adequate precautions. It includes turning to healthier habits and lifestyles.

• You should keep your home clean, warm and dust-free. Dampness inside the house should be avoided.
• Hand sanitiser and face masks should be always used. You should avoid touching your nose and mouth with your hands, particularly if you had outside surface contact. Hands should be regularly and thoroughly washed.
• Social distancing should be maintained, and crowded places should be avoided. Senior citizens and people with co-morbidities should stay indoors as much as possible.
• Drinking cooled boiled water is a healthy habit. Outside food should be avoided and only fresh homemade food should be consumed.
• If respiratory issues persist medical consultation is necessary. Self-medication should be avoided to the extent possible.
• Ensure that you have adequate health insurance Check the coverage, exclusions and deductibles health insurance policies offer.

The wet and extreme conditions of the monsoon season become the breeding ground for a host of diseases. Be aware of the health hazards of the season and take care of yourselves adequately.