Latest news with #SatishKoul
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First Post
29-06-2025
- Health
- First Post
Summer sets the trap: Doctors call for pre-monsoon malaria vigilance
As summer sets in, doctors warn that heat, stagnant water and increased outdoor exposure are driving malaria risks higher. With the WHO flagging seasonal shifts and behavioural patterns as key contributors, timely prevention and awareness can help avert pre-monsoon outbreaks. read more As temperatures rise across India, health experts are raising alarms over malaria transmission during summer, an often-overlooked seasonal danger. While monsoon months are traditionally linked to vector-borne diseases, medical experts say that summer lays the groundwork for intensified malaria outbreaks, creating perfect conditions for the Anopheles mosquito, the vector of the Plasmodium parasite. Firstpost talked with Dr Satish Koul, Senior Director & Unit Head, Internal Medicine, Fortis Memorial Research Institute (Gurugram) and Dr Tushar Tayal, Consultant, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram to understand how summer conditions increase malaria risk and what people can do to protect themselves. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'The summer heat, combined with pre-monsoon showers, speeds up the parasite's development inside mosquitoes. It also increases outdoor exposure and water accumulation—both major contributors to malaria risk.' How summer creates a perfect storm According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), malaria is a preventable and treatable disease, but still poses a grave threat, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The rising summer temperatures (especially between 20–30°C) are ideal for both mosquito survival and the Plasmodium parasite's incubation. Dr Tayal said 'Improper drainage, stagnant water in coolers, gutters, and discarded containers—all typical during Indian summers—become prime mosquito breeding sites, especially in areas with poor sanitation.' Adding to the risk is human behaviour—greater outdoor activity during evenings and early mornings coincides with peak Anopheles mosquito biting times. In regions where people lack access to bed nets, mosquito repellents, or screened housing, exposure increases dramatically. High-risk populations and delayed diagnosis Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses or compromised immunity are particularly vulnerable. Dr Koul pointed out that heat-related dehydration and fatigue can further impair the body's immune response, making infections more severe. What complicates detection is that early malaria symptoms—fever, body aches, chills—closely mimic heat exhaustion and viral fevers. In rural or underserved communities, this often leads to delayed treatment or reliance on self-medication, heightening the risk of complications and community-level spread. Seasonal mobility and travel risk Summer holidays often see increased travel to forested or rural areas—many of which are malaria-endemic zones. According to Dr Tayal, 'Travel to such locations without prophylaxis or awareness increases the chances of contracting the disease. Migrant labour movement can also contribute to new outbreaks.' Clinical advice for prevention Both experts stress proactive prevention as key. Recommendations include: Eliminating stagnant water from all containers weekly. Using insecticide-treated bed nets and mosquito repellents consistently. Wearing protective clothing in the evenings and early mornings. Seeking medical attention promptly for any unexplained fever or flu-like symptoms. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Consulting a physician for antimalarial prophylaxis if traveling to endemic areas. Climate Change and Future Outlook Climate change adds another layer of complexity. With rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall, malaria zones may expand and transmission seasons may lengthen. As such, community awareness, infrastructure improvements, and preventive care must be at the forefront of India's malaria strategy. As the summer heat intensifies, experts warn that tackling malaria requires not just monsoon vigilance but year-round, seasonally adaptive public health action.
News18
17-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Hypertension Is Preventable: Here's How to Manage It Effectively
Last Updated: Hypertension is largely preventable and manageable through conscious lifestyle choices and increased awareness Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is often called the 'silent killer" because it can quietly damage the body for years before symptoms appear. The good news? Hypertension is largely preventable and manageable through conscious lifestyle choices and increased awareness. Dr. Satish Koul, Senior Director & Unit Head, Internal Medicine, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, shares all you need to know: Maintain a Healthy Diet A heart-friendly diet plays a crucial role. Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy. Reduce salt intake—excess sodium raises blood pressure. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is a proven method for lowering blood pressure. Exercise Regularly Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity most days of the week. Walking, cycling, swimming, or even dancing can improve heart health and help keep your blood pressure in check. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking Drinking in moderation and avoiding tobacco significantly reduce your risk. Both habits are strongly linked to elevated blood pressure and heart disease. Manage Stress Chronic stress may contribute to high blood pressure. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or engage in hobbies you enjoy to help stay calm and centered. Take Medications If Prescribed If lifestyle changes alone aren't enough, your doctor may prescribe medications. Always follow medical advice carefully and never skip doses. First Published: May 17, 2025, 15:18 IST
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Business Standard
24-04-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Working in AC and facing summer heat? Eight tips to stay fit and energised
With temperatures in North India already exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, for office-goers, a crisp, chilled office floor feels like a sanctuary, an escape from the furnace outside. But the moment one steps out for a chai break or to head home, the heat ambushes them like a wall of fire—unforgiving and unrelenting. This daily dance, from the embrace of air-conditioning to the fury of the sun and back again, may seem routine, even harmless. Yet, this constant tug-of-war between extremes quietly chips away at people's health in ways seldom noticed—until the body finally begins to protest. Dr Satish Koul, senior director and unit head, internal medicine, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram, said in a telephonic conversation with Business Standard, 'Rapid transitions from air-conditioned indoor environments to hot outdoor conditions can place significant stress on the body's temperature regulation mechanisms. Your body struggles to adjust its thermoregulation rapidly. This may weaken the immune response, increasing susceptibility to headaches, colds, sore throat, and other infections—even heat exhaustion and sudden fatigue due to the shock to the immune system.' 'Additionally, prolonged exposure to low AC temperatures can lead to joint stiffness or muscle pain, especially in sedentary office environments,' he added. He also said that these temperature shocks not only stress the respiratory system but can also affect the cardiovascular system, especially in people with underlying health conditions. Highlighting that AC systems can also spread allergens, bacteria, and viruses—especially if filters are not regularly cleaned—he said, 'You should be mindful of regular maintenance of AC systems at your offices. Dirty filters can circulate harmful particles, leading to respiratory issues.' Also Read: Common health issues caused by AC and summer heat exposure Dryness and dehydration Headaches Sore throats Colds from immune shock Respiratory issues and allergens spread Worsening of asthma or allergic rhinitis Muscle stiffness or joint pain from prolonged cold exposure 'People with pre-existing respiratory conditions often notice their symptoms worsening due to this abrupt exposure,' adds Dr Koul. Top tips to protect your health while working in AC this summer 1. Wear breathable clothes for better temperature control Opt for light, loose-fitting, and breathable fabrics such as cotton. Avoid synthetic materials as they trap heat and sweat, making the transition more uncomfortable. 'Carry a light jacket or scarf to balance out the cold indoors—it helps your body adapt better and prevents sudden chills,' says Dr Koul. 2. Use sun protection before stepping outdoors Use an umbrella, cap, and sunglasses to shield yourself from direct sun exposure. Cover your mouth and nose with a scarf to minimise the shock from hot air. 3. Stay hydrated throughout the workday Frequent temperature changes can dehydrate the body. Drink water regularly, even before you feel thirsty. Include natural fluids like coconut water, buttermilk, or lemon water to restore electrolyte balance. 'Cold air can suppress your thirst. Keep water at your desk and sip throughout the day to stay energised and regulate your body temperature,' said Dr Koul. 4. Set AC temperature to a healthy range (24–26°C) Maintain the office AC at a moderate temperature, ideally between 24 degrees Celsius and 26 degrees Celsius. This reduces the temperature gap between indoors and outdoors. 'Extremely low settings are not only uncomfortable but harmful. Ideally, keep the AC between 24–26 degrees Celsius,' recommends Dr Koul. Also Read: 5. Eat immunity-boosting foods and stay active 'Include fruits, greens, nuts, and seeds in your diet. Even a short daily walk helps your body stay active and alert.' 6. Don't ignore early symptoms of discomfort If you develop a sore throat, headache, fever, or any breathing discomfort after exposure to sudden temperature changes, consult a doctor. Early intervention can prevent complications. 7. Practice deep breathing to ease respiratory strain 'AC air can constrict airways. Simple deep breathing exercises or pranayama can help ease breathing and protect lung health.' 8. Let your body adjust before stepping into the heat If possible, avoid stepping out immediately after long exposure to cold air. Give your body a few minutes in a non-air-conditioned indoor environment before heading outside. 'Don't rush from your desk to the outdoors. Let your body adjust—turn off the AC a few minutes before stepping out,' said Dr Koul. 'While we can't avoid the heat, small changes in routine can prevent bigger health issues. It's about listening to your body and adjusting smartly,' concludes Dr Koul.
