Health Talk:Tips In Staying Healthy And Safe This Rainy Season

We’ve all heard this before – to stay healthy and happy during the rainy season, we must take precautions during rainy season. And we’re not just talking about staying away from water logged areas or eating street food. We’re talking about overall health tips for rainy season which can make the weather even more enjoyable.

1. Follow a healthy diet.

• This is the season where the body and especially the digestive system are most prone to infections.

• Diseases in the rainy season are mostly water-borne so make sure you only drink water that is filtered or boiled.

• It is also important to maintain a healthy diet in rainy season, which means that your favourite chaat, juices, golas, kulfis and other street food are off the menu.

• Preferably avoid raw vegetables and salads unless they are consumed at home where you can wash and clean them thoroughly.

2. Drink enough water, regardless of your activity levels.

• Do not compensate your liquid intake with carbonated, caffeinated, and alcoholic drinks and beverages as the preservatives and sugars in them act as diuretics.

• Herbal teas with antibacterial properties are a good idea.

3. Avoid walking in the rain.

• As much as it is tempting, walking in rain water makes you prone to a host of viral diseases such as leptospirosis and can also cause numerous fungal infections at the feet and nails.

• Also, if your feet get wet, dry them immediately and do not stay in wet socks or shoes.

• Diabetics especially must take extra care and avoid walking barefoot as the ground is rife with all kinds of germs.

• If your clothes get wet, do not sit in an AC environment or change them immediately.

• Keeping an extra pair of clothes and footwear in the office is a good idea.

4. Keep clear of damp indoors:

• Damp walls are home to fungus growth and an absolute no-no if you suffer from asthma or any other breathing problems.

5. Don’t leave home without a mosquito repellent:

• Accumulated water is a breeding ground for insects and the monsoons are party time for malaria.

• Always wear or carry a mosquito repellent.

• The over cautious can take a dose of anti-malaria drugs.

6. Bathe twice a day.

• A shower as soon as you reach home in the evening will insulate you against infections caused by the build-up of sweat and dirt due to humidity.

• Take Vitamin C to boost your immunity.

7. Avoid touching your eyes:

• Eye infections like conjunctivitis, stye, dry eyes and corneal ulcers are common during the monsoons.

• This can lead to blindness if ignored. Refrain from touching eyes especially with dirty hands. those who spend long hours in front of a screen – television or computer – may also experience redness, itching or irritation.

• Consult a doctor immediately.