November heat or chill? Mumbai doctors highlight effects on health

Early Novemberrsquos unseasonal rain after scorching heat has left Mumbaikars confused mdash and coughing As a mild winter chill creeps in the cityrsquos AQI remains in the lsquomoderatersquo range 160165 with PM25 as the main pollutant It was no different on Sunday as the city saw it stable at 160 Doctors warn that this mix of heat humidity and haze is a perfect recipe for respiratory and viral illnessesldquoNovember can bring sudden humidity and fluctuating temperaturesrdquo said Dr Harish Chafle senior consultant chest physician bronchoscopist intensivist and sleep disorders specialist at Gleneagles Hospitals in Parel ldquoStaying alert to weather shifts helps prevent colds fatigue and dehydrationrdquoAmid the cityrsquos changing weather and worsening AQI midday spoke with Dr Chafle and Dr Sanah Merchant consultant general medicine and infectious disease specialist at the Holy Family Hospital in Bandra about the impact on health and the ways one can stay protectedUnpredictable weatherDr Merchant Mumbaikars must prepare for an unusual mix mdash unseasonable daytime warmth followed by cooler evenings as winter creeps in Climate variability this year means both extremes can occur in a single day Wear breathable clothes during the day and carry a light layer for the evening Stay hydrated to avoid heat exhaustion Sudden drops in temperature can trigger coughs chills and respiratory infectionsDr Harish Chafle senior consultant chest physician bronchoscopist intensivist and sleep disorders specialist at Gleneagles Hospitals PicsBy Special ArrangementHealth risksDr Chafle Novemberrsquos blend of lingering humidity sudden temperature drops and rising pollution can trigger respiratory issues viral infections and allergies People should stay hydrated maintain hygiene and take precautions against flu and skin problemsDr Merchant This crossover between postmonsoon humidity and early winter dryness increases the risk of infections and allergies Rapid weather changes can worsen chronic respiratory illnesses like asthma or bronchitis especially among the elderly Stagnant rainwater can also increase mosquitoborne diseases Ensure good ventilation drink clean water and use mosquito repellentsWho are most vulnerableDr Chafle Children the elderly and those with asthma diabetes or heart conditions are most vulnerable to Novemberrsquos fluctuating weather Women may also experience more fatigue and dehydration due to hormonal factorsDr Merchant People with chronic respiratory or cardiac illnesses are at higher risk Their immune systems struggle to adapt to rapid weather changes Avoid crowded spaces use masks and stay alert to early symptomsDr Sanah Merchant consultant general medicine and infectious disease specialist Holy Family HospitalFood for better immunityDr Chafle Load up on seasonal fruits like citrus amla and guava along with leafy greens Warm soups turmeric milk and herbal teas help ward off infectionsDr Merchant Fresh fruits like oranges amla and guavas mdash rich in vitamin C mdash boost immunity Include vegetables like spinach methi and broccoli and add turmeric ginger garlic and tulsi to meals for antiinflammatory benefits Avoid oily processed foodsUnseasonal rain adds to riskDr Chafle The prolonged November rains have worsened humidity and waterlogging creating breeding grounds for infections and mosquitoes For people with asthma joint pain or weak immunity this dampness can aggravate symptomsDr Merchant This yearrsquos extended rainfall has delayed the dry season keeping humidity unusually high Thatrsquos leading to more respiratory waterborne and allergic diseases Keep homes dry and wellventilated and get regular checkups if you have chronic illnessesPollution coughing spellsDr Chafle Pollution worsens in November as cooler air traps pollutants closer to the ground Common symptoms include persistent cough throat irritation breathlessness watery eyes and chest discomfort Seek medical help if symptoms persistDr Merchant As wind speeds drop pollutants remain trapped People may develop wheezing coughing or breathlessness especially those with asthma or bronchitis Avoid outdoor activity when AQI is poor and use air purifiers indoors if possibleTreatment and precautionsDr Chafle Steam inhalation saline sprays and avoiding outdoor exposure during peak pollution hours can ease symptoms But if a cough lasts more than a week or is accompanied by breathlessness or chest pain see a doctor immediatelyDr Merchant Home remedies such as warm fluids gargles and hydration work for mild symptoms But consult a doctor if fever breathing difficulty or chest pain develops Those with chronic illnesses should monitor themselves closely and keep emergency medicines handyTips to stay healthyDr Chafle Stay hydrated eat fresh seasonal fruits and maintain hygiene Regular exercise wearing masks outdoors and avoiding sudden temperature changes go a long wayDr Merchant Wash hands frequently ventilate homes wear suitable clothing and avoid street food Follow AQI updates to plan your day Special care must be taken for children and the elderly