Diarrhoea prevention tips: Why diarrhoea spikes during the monsoon and how to stay safe
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
However, with improved community sanitation and standard of living, there is a significant drop in incidence and prevalence of cholera cases that once dominated the headlines in the past. On the contrary, although diarrhoea occurs throughout the year, there is a significant rise in cases during rainy season.
This rise in cases is mainly attributed to the water-logging and compromised sanitation during this period which create favourable conditions for thriving of waterborne and foodborne infections.
Monsoon-related diarrhoea - often caused by contaminated water and unhygienic food is characterized by increased frequency (more than three to four times a day) or a change in the consistency of stools (watery than usual).
Furthermore, diarrhoea can also be acute diarrhoea – when is lasts about two weeks and chronic diarrhoea when it typically persists beyond 15 days, often pointing to some underlying issues.
Furthermore, diarrhoea can either be infectious or inflammatory.
Infectious diarrhoea is the most prevalent type of diarrhoea and is caused by bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella), viruses, or protozoa. Inflammatory diarrhoea is caused due to inflammation in the gut, often as a result of chronic intestinal conditions such as IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).
Who is at greater risk?
Although diarrhoea can occur in people of all age groups, the severity and complications are more significant in children under the age of 10 and adults over the age of 50.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Individuals with compromised immune system such as those with long-standing diabetes, HIV, heart disease, or those on immunosuppressive medications like steroids are also vulnerable for severe diarrhoea and its complications. In such individuals, even mild diarrhoea can escalate quickly into dehydration or systemic illness, requiring prompt medical attention.
Practical prevention tips
Proper hygiene maintenance and being mindful about the food we eat can help prevent diarrhoea during the monsoon. Here are some expert recommended simple but effective measures:
Refrain from consuming outside food, particularly those kept for extended durations.
Consume only boiled water or water that has been filtered.
Choose hot meals that are freshly prepared rather than cold or stored foods.
Avoid street foods like pani-puri, as they are often associated with water contamination.
Ensure personal and kitchen hygiene, especially in areas susceptible to flooding or with standing water.
Treatment and management essentials:
The majority of diarrhoeal episodes, especially viral ones, self-resolve within several days.
Hydration is the fundamental basis of treatment. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), buttermilk, and adequate fluid intake are typically enough to avert dehydration and aid recovery.
During an active diarrhoeal episode, it is best to avoid high-fiber and fatty foods, which can aggravate symptoms. While routine blood and stool tests are not necessary for mild cases, they may be required for patients with persistent, severe, or complicated symptoms.
When to see a doctor: The warning signals
Acute abdominal pain
Fever of high grade
Stool containing blood or mucus
Chronic vomiting
Symptoms persisting longer than 3–4 days
Dr. Ch. Manoj Kumar, Senior Consultant – General Physician, Manipal Hospital Vijayawada
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Time of India
Diarrhoea prevention tips: Why diarrhoea spikes during the monsoon and how to stay safe
With variations in season there is often a spike in certain health concerns. In monsoon particularly, there is a steep rise in incidence of diseases that spread through contaminated food and water, such as diarrhoea and cholera. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now However, with improved community sanitation and standard of living, there is a significant drop in incidence and prevalence of cholera cases that once dominated the headlines in the past. On the contrary, although diarrhoea occurs throughout the year, there is a significant rise in cases during rainy season. This rise in cases is mainly attributed to the water-logging and compromised sanitation during this period which create favourable conditions for thriving of waterborne and foodborne infections. Monsoon-related diarrhoea - often caused by contaminated water and unhygienic food is characterized by increased frequency (more than three to four times a day) or a change in the consistency of stools (watery than usual). Furthermore, diarrhoea can also be acute diarrhoea – when is lasts about two weeks and chronic diarrhoea when it typically persists beyond 15 days, often pointing to some underlying issues. Furthermore, diarrhoea can either be infectious or inflammatory. Infectious diarrhoea is the most prevalent type of diarrhoea and is caused by bacteria (e.g., Salmonella, Shigella), viruses, or protozoa. Inflammatory diarrhoea is caused due to inflammation in the gut, often as a result of chronic intestinal conditions such as IBD (inflammatory bowel disease). Who is at greater risk? Although diarrhoea can occur in people of all age groups, the severity and complications are more significant in children under the age of 10 and adults over the age of 50. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Individuals with compromised immune system such as those with long-standing diabetes, HIV, heart disease, or those on immunosuppressive medications like steroids are also vulnerable for severe diarrhoea and its complications. In such individuals, even mild diarrhoea can escalate quickly into dehydration or systemic illness, requiring prompt medical attention. Practical prevention tips Proper hygiene maintenance and being mindful about the food we eat can help prevent diarrhoea during the monsoon. Here are some expert recommended simple but effective measures: Refrain from consuming outside food, particularly those kept for extended durations. Consume only boiled water or water that has been filtered. Choose hot meals that are freshly prepared rather than cold or stored foods. Avoid street foods like pani-puri, as they are often associated with water contamination. Ensure personal and kitchen hygiene, especially in areas susceptible to flooding or with standing water. Treatment and management essentials: The majority of diarrhoeal episodes, especially viral ones, self-resolve within several days. Hydration is the fundamental basis of treatment. Oral rehydration solutions (ORS), buttermilk, and adequate fluid intake are typically enough to avert dehydration and aid recovery. During an active diarrhoeal episode, it is best to avoid high-fiber and fatty foods, which can aggravate symptoms. While routine blood and stool tests are not necessary for mild cases, they may be required for patients with persistent, severe, or complicated symptoms. When to see a doctor: The warning signals Acute abdominal pain Fever of high grade Stool containing blood or mucus Chronic vomiting Symptoms persisting longer than 3–4 days Dr. Ch. Manoj Kumar, Senior Consultant – General Physician, Manipal Hospital Vijayawada
Time of India
19 hours ago
- Time of India
Love mayonnaise? Here's what it might be doing to your health
A popular condiment throughout the world, mayonnaise is prized for its rich flavour and creamy texture, which complements meals like salads, sandwiches, and burgers. However, because of its high fat and calorie content, it frequently causes health issues. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Furthermore, egg-based mayonnaise spoils easily and can cause foodborne diseases, so it needs to be stored properly. One prominent instance was in India, where the Telangana state banned egg-based mayonnaise for a year following multiple reports of food poisoning. Products that were contaminated or improperly stored were implicated in these incidents. Even though mayonnaise is a popular food, this circumstance emphasises the necessity of strict food safety regulations and greater knowledge of the possible health hazards connected to its consumption. What is mayonnaise made of? Mayonnaise typically consists of oil, egg yolks, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings like mustard. These ingredients are blended to create a creamy texture. The main components include: Oil- Neutral tasting like canola or soybean oil Egg yolks- For structure and richness Acid- Vinegar or lemon juice for stability and flavour Salt and seasonings- For taste There are also various types of mayonnaise, such as low-fat, vegan, and flavoured versions, with different ingredients and nutritional content. Does low-fat mayonnaise help in weight loss? Low-fat mayonnaise isn't always a healthier option. According to different varieties of mayonnaise contain added sugars, starches, or artificial ingredients to replace the fat, which can have negative health effects and other dietary concerns. Health benefits of eating mayonnaise According to mayonnaise has some health benefits if eaten in moderation. Healthy fats: Mayonnaise made with olive or avocado oil contains unsaturated fats supporting cardiovascular health. Mayonnaise made with olive or avocado oil contains unsaturated fats supporting cardiovascular health. Vitamin E: Mayonnaise is a source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells and supports immune function. Mayonnaise is a source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects cells and supports immune function. Absorbs nutrients: The fats in mayonnaise also help the body absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K from other foods. The fats in mayonnaise also help the body absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K from other foods. Customisable: Mayonnaise is customizable to suit individual dietary preferences, such as low-fat, vegan, and light. Negative health effects of mayonnaise Mayonnaise can pose health risks due to its ingredients and handling. Here are some concerns: Food poisoning: As mayonnaise is made of raw eggs, it may contain Salmonella. Through improper storage and handling of mayonnaise, the risk of foodborne illness increases. As mayonnaise is made of raw eggs, it may contain Salmonella. Through improper storage and handling of mayonnaise, the risk of foodborne illness increases. High calories and fat: Mayonnaise is rich in high fat and calories. Its rich taste leads to overeating, which can further lead to weight gain. Mayonnaise is rich in high fat and calories. Its rich taste leads to overeating, which can further lead to weight gain. Processed ingredients: Most of the store-bought mayonnaise contains refined oils and other additives, which might not be ideal for a healthy diet Most of the store-bought mayonnaise contains refined oils and other additives, which might not be ideal for a healthy diet Cholesterol: Mayonnaise made with egg yolks contains cholesterol, and consuming it in excess might cause some risky health conditions Mayonnaise made with egg yolks contains cholesterol, and consuming it in excess might cause some risky health conditions Bacterial growth: Mayonnaise's high fat content and raw eggs can create an environment for bacterial growth if not stored properly Also read |
Time of India
20 hours ago
- Time of India
Top doctor warns against 3 cockroach-transmitted diseases. Here are symptoms
Although cockroaches don't bite like mosquitoes or sting like bees or scorpions, they can become a health hazard in the long run. Cardiologist Dr. Deepak Krishnamurthy recently revealed how these pests can affect your well-being and urged followers to keep their homes cockroach-free. Cockroaches Can Cause The Following Diseases Cockroaches are considered to be as dangerous as an allergen source and an asthma trigger. They may also carry certain bacteria that can cause illnesses if left on food, as per a Healthline report. Certain proteins in cockroach saliva and body parts trigger these allergic reactions. Cockroaches are also a source of Salmonella. This bacterium is a major culprit in causing gastric problems and typhoid fever. It is also a source of E. coli, which may cause food poisoning. Symptoms Of Cockroach-Transmitted Diseases As per Dr. Krishnamurthy, watch out for these symptoms: A fever that refuses to go down. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea. Muscle and joint pain. A feeling of discomfort in your chest. Cough. Breathlessness and dizziness. Shortness of breath. How to Reduce Cockroach Infestation at Home According to a report by Healthline , in addition to seeking help from professional pest control services, you can actively minimize cockroach activity in your home by cutting off their sources of food, water, and hiding spaces. Taking the following preventive actions can make your living environment less appealing to these pests: Start by sealing any gaps or openings, especially in the walls and floorboards, to block their entry paths. Leaky plumbing, such as dripping faucets or broken pipes, should be promptly repaired to eliminate moisture that attracts cockroaches. Ensure that typically damp spaces—like under sinks, laundry rooms, and basements—are kept dry with adequate ventilation or dehumidifiers. Use cockroach-specific traps and baits to catch and monitor their movement. Always keep garbage bins securely covered with lids, and never leave food exposed. Store all pantry goods, including packaged and leftover items, in containers with tight-fitting lids. After every meal, wash dirty dishes instead of letting them sit in the sink. Don't leave pet food out overnight—clean pet bowls after your pets are done eating. Crumbs and food particles should be swept away from counters, stovetops, dining areas, and floors. Spilled liquids or sauces should be wiped up right away to prevent attracting pests. Vacuuming and mopping floors regularly can help remove food debris and insect eggs. Occasionally clean under large or rarely moved furniture—at least once a year—as those spaces can become hiding spots. Lastly, reduce clutter from closets, drawers, and storage spaces, as cockroaches often seek shelter in piles of unused items.
