These days, patients suffering from cold, cough and fever are being seen in almost every house in Delhi-NCR. Regarding these cases which have suddenly increased with the change in weather, we talked to Dr. Meera Pathak, working at CHC Hospital, Bhangel, Noida. She told that during the change in weather, fluctuations in temperature, increasing humidity and changes in the virus can increase the cases of infection.
According to Dr. Meera Pathak, mainly three factors come into play during changing weather. The first and most important factor is the fluctuation in temperature. Due to sudden changes in temperature, the natural protection mechanisms of our respiratory track i.e. the respiratory system can be affected. He told that the second factor is humidity. The possibility of infection and transmission of some respiratory viruses may increase with increased humidity. The third reason is the genetic changes occurring in respiratory viruses over time. Due to changes in viruses like influenza, the body’s pre-existing immunity may become less effective, causing cases of infection to increase.
Difference between cold and swine flu
Dr. Meera Pathak said that these days, along with common cold, cases of swine flu are also being reported. However, it is not easy for common people to differentiate between the two, because many symptoms of common cold and swine flu can be similar. He told that the easiest way to differentiate between the two is testing. However, in some cases the difference can be estimated on the basis of symptoms also. If symptoms start suddenly in a person, such as high fever, high body temperature, severe headache and difficulty in breathing, then it should be taken seriously. In such cases, it is important to immediately go to the hospital and contact a doctor.
Who is most at risk?
According to Dr. Meera Pathak, some people may be at greater risk in case of infection. These include elderly people, pregnant women, children below five years of age, people already suffering from any disease, patients with weak immunity. Such people should take special care if symptoms of infection appear and should consult a doctor on time. The doctor said that in many cases, treatment is done based on the symptoms of the patient and antiviral treatment is started if needed. However, not every patient needs antiviral medicine. If the patient falls in the high risk group or his symptoms are serious, then swine flu test can be done on the advice of the doctor.
How to take care of yourself?
Dr. Meera Pathak said that caution is very important to prevent infection. If any person is showing symptoms like cold, cough or fever then he should use a mask and maintain proper distance from other people. He said that in mild cases it is important to drink enough water, keep the body hydrated and take treatment as per the doctor’s advice. In some cases, taking steam and taking medicines like paracetamol or cetirizine on doctor’s advice can provide relief from symptoms.
Only after the fever is cured and the body condition becomes normal, the person can start his normal activities. The doctor especially advised to use a mask while going to the hospital or crowded places. If any person at home has fever or flu-like symptoms, then maintain proper distance with him and take necessary precautions to prevent infection.
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