Health Issues in Extreme Summer: Understanding the Risks and Staying Safe

 

Health Issues in Extreme Summer: Understanding the Risks and Staying Safe

As the summer months approach, the temperatures soar, and the humidity rises, presenting a array of health challenges that we must be aware of and prepared to manage. Extreme heat can lead to serious health issues, some of which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. In this section, we will delve into the health hazards associated with extreme summer heat, the symptoms to look out for, and most importantly, the preventive measures and strategies to remain healthy and hydrated.

Health Hazards of Extreme Heat

Extreme heat can cause a range of health issues, from mild discomfort to severe and life-threatening conditions. Here are some of the key health hazards to be concerned about:

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when your body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often exacerbated by high humidity. Symptoms include heavy sweating, headache, dizziness, nausea, and a fast heart rate. If not treated, heat exhaustion can rapidly escalate to heatstroke, a far more severe condition[2][5].

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the body's core temperature reaches 104°F (40°C) or higher. It can lead to permanent damage to the brain and other vital organs, and if not treated immediately, it can be fatal. Signs of heatstroke include confusion, slurred speech, seizures, and loss of consciousness. Immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases[1][3].

Symptoms to Watch For

Identifying the symptoms of heat-related illnesses early is crucial for effective treatment. Here are the key symptoms to look out for:

• Heavy sweating: One of the first signs that your body is overheating.
• Headache: A common symptom of both heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Dizziness or nausea: These can indicate that your body is struggling to cool down.
• Fast heart rate: An increased heart rate can be a sign of heat exhaustion.
• Confusion or altered mental state: This is a critical sign of heatstroke and requires immediate attention[2][5].

Preventive Measures

Preventing heat-related illnesses involves a combination of smart planning, proper attire, and mindful hydration. Here are some key strategies to keep you safe:

Dress Appropriately

Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing that allows for good airflow. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can also help protect you from the sun[1][5].

Protect Against Sunburn

Sunburn can significantly impair your body's ability to cool itself. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15 and reapply it every two hours or after swimming or sweating heavily[1][5].

Time Your Activities Wisely

Avoid the hottest parts of the day (usually between 11 AM and 3 PM) for outdoor activities. Schedule your exercise, yard work, or other outdoor tasks for early morning or evening when temperatures are lower[5].

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water or electrolyte-rich drinks, to help your body stay cool. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you further[5].

Stay in Air-Conditioned Spaces

If possible, stay in air-conditioned places as much as you can. If your home does not have air conditioning, consider visiting a shopping mall, library, or other public space with air conditioning[4].

Treatment and Immediate Actions

If you or someone you know is experiencing heat exhaustion or heatstroke, it is crucial to act swiftly:

• Move to a cooler location: Immediately move the person to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment.
• Rest and hydrate: Have the person rest in a cool place and drink cool water or electrolyte-rich drinks.
• Cool the body: Use cool cloths or a fan to help lower the body temperature.
• Seek medical attention: For severe cases, especially heatstroke, seek immediate medical help[1][3][5].

Conclusion

Extreme summer heat poses significant health risks, but with the right knowledge and precautions, these risks can be significantly mitigated. By dressing appropriately, protecting against sunburn, timing activities wisely, staying hydrated, and knowing the symptoms of heat-related illnesses, you can ensure a safe and healthy summer. Remember, prevention is key, and prompt action can save lives. Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy the summer season responsibly.

 

ফাংগাল ইনফেকশন

ফাংগাল ইনফেকশন কি?

ছত্রাকের সংক্রমণ হল কোনো রোগ বা অবস্থা যা ছত্রাক থেকে হয়ে থাকে। এগুলি সাধারণত আপনার ত্বক, চুল, নখ বা শ্লেষ্মা ঝিল্লিকে প্রভাবিত করে তবে তারা আপনার ফুসফুস বা আপনার শরীরের অন্যান্য অংশকেও সংক্রামিত করতে পারে। আপনার দুর্বল রোগ প্রতিরোধ ক্ষমতা থাকলে ছত্রাক সংক্রমণের ঝুঁকি বেশি। অ্যান্টিফাঙ্গাল ওষুধগুলি সাধারণত ছত্রাক সংক্রমণের চিকিৎসার জন্য ব্যবহৃত হয়।

ফাংগাস বা ছত্রাক কি?

ছত্রাক হল জীবন্ত জিনিস যা উদ্ভিদ বা প্রাণী থেকে আলাদাভাবে শ্রেণীবদ্ধ করা হয়। এরা বাতাসে বা পরিবেশে স্পোর (প্রজনন অংশ) ছড়িয়ে বা প্রেরণ করে ঘুরে বেড়ায়। অনেক ছত্রাক আমাদের শরীরে প্রাকৃতিকভাবে বাস করে (মুখ, পরিপাকতন্ত্র, ত্বক) কিন্তু নির্দিষ্ট পরিস্থিতিতে অতিরিক্ত বৃদ্ধি পেতে পারে।

ফাংগাল ইনফেকশনের কত প্রকার?

• Superficial fungal Infections 
• Subcutaneous fungal infections 
• Deep fungal infections

Superficial fungal Infections:

1. Ringworm (dermatophytosis): tinea pedis/athlete’s foot, tinea cruris/jock itch, tinea capitis),tinea barbae and tinea corporis. 
2. Onychomycosis: cause discolored and cracked nails. 
3. Candidiasis: oral thrush, some types of diaper rash, vaginal yeast infections (vulvovaginitis). 
4. Tinea versicolor/pityriasis versicolor : The fungus Malassezia causes skin discoloration.

Subcutaneous fungal Infections:

1. Sporotrichosis (rose gardener’s disease): Sporothrix fungus causes sporotrichosis in your lungs or other parts of your body. 
2. Chromoblastomycosis: It can cause a long-lasting (chronic) skin infections. 
3. Eumycetoma: It most commonly affects your feet.

Deep fungal Infections:

1. Aspergillosis: can cause several types of lung infections. 
2. Candidal urinary tract infection.
3. Cryptococcosis: Cryptococcus neoformans usually infect your lungs, but sometimes can infect your brain and spinal cord (cryptococcal meningitis).

Superficial fungal Infections এর লক্ষ্মণ সমূহ:

• আক্রান্ত স্থানে চুলকানি, 
• ব্যথা, 
• চামড়া শুকিয়ে উঠে যাওয়া, 
• লালভাব বা ফুসকুড়ি বিবর্ণ, 
• পুরু বা ফাটা নখ

কিভাবে ছত্রাকের সংক্রমণ হয়?

• স্যাঁতসেঁতে পাবলিক স্পেস থেকে। 
• আপনার ত্বকে ক্ষত বা আঘাতের মাধ্যমে। 
• পরিবেশ থেকে ছত্রাকের স্পোর শ্বাস নেওয়া থেকে (যেমন মাটি বা ধুলো)। 
• অ্যান্টিবায়োটিক গ্রহণ থেকে, যা কিছু ছত্রাককে সুযোগ দিতে পারে যা স্বাভাবিকভাবে আপনার শরীরে পাওয়া যায় না। 
• সংক্রামিত ব্যক্তি বা প্রাণীর সাথে সরাসরি সংস্পর্শ থেকে আপনি কিছু ডার্মাটোফাইট সংক্রমণ হতে পারে।

ফাংগাল ইনফেকশন কি ছোঁয়াচে?

দাদ জাতীয় কিছু ছত্রাকজনিত রোগ সরাসরি সংস্পর্শের মাধ্যমে ব্যক্তি থেকে অন্য ব্যক্তিতে ছড়িয়ে পড়তে পারে। অন্যান্য গভীর সংক্রমণ, যেমন ছত্রাক দ্বারা ফুসফুসের ইনফেকশন, সাধারণত সংক্রামক হয় না।

ফাংগাল ইনফেকশন কিভাবে ডায়াগনোসিস করা হয়?

ছত্রাকের ডায়াগনোসিস করার জন্য নমুনা: ত্বক বা অন্যান্য আক্রান্ত টিস্যু, নখ, রক্ত, কফ, আপনার মস্তিষ্ক এবং মেরুদণ্ডের চারপাশে তরল (CNS fluid)। প্রস্রাব, আপনার চোখ থেকে নিঃসৃত তরল, যোনি স্রাব।

চিকিৎসাঃ

একজন রেজিস্টার্ড এমবিবিএস ডাক্তার বা ত্বক বিশেষজ্ঞের পরামর্শ নিন।

কিভাবে ফাংগাল ইনফেকশন এর ঝুঁকি কমাতে পারেন?

• নোংরা বা ঘাম হওয়ার পরে গোসল করুন। 
• আপনার ত্বকের কোনো অংশ স্যাঁতসেঁতে থাকতে দেবেন না। 
• ডায়াবেটিস নিয়ন্ত্রণ করুন।
• বাসায় অথবা পাবলিক বাথরুমে খালি পায়ে হাঁটবেন না। 
• পরিষ্কার, শু
  কনো, সুতির অন্তর্বাস পরুন। 
• আপনার দাঁত এবং মুখের যত্ন নিন।
• আপনার চোখের ডাক্তারের নির্দেশনা অনুসারে কন্টাক্ট লেন্স পরিষ্কার করুন এবং ব্যবহার করুন। 
• আপনার নখ ছোট এবং পরিষ্কার রাখুন। 
• শুধুমাত্র চিকিৎসক নির্দেশিত অ্যান্টিবায়োটিক গ্রহণ করুন। 
• আপনি যদি খুব বেশি সময় ধরে অ্যান্টিবায়োটিক গ্রহণ করেন তবে ফাংগাস আপনার শরীরে অতিরিক্ত বৃদ্ধি পেতে পারে এবং সংক্রমণের কারণ হতে পারে। 
• খেলাধুলার সরঞ্জাম, তোয়ালে বা অন্যান্য ব্যক্তিগত আইটেম অন্য লোকেদের সাথে শেয়ার করবেন না।

Diarrhea

Diarrhea means having a loose, watery stool during a bowel movement. It’s common in both children and adults and usually goes away on its own within a few days. If it doesn’t improve or if you’re experiencing other symptoms like a fever or bloody stool, reach out to a provider to get the treatment (and relief) you need.

Types of diarrhea

1. Acute diarrhea: Acute diarrhea is loose, watery diarrhea that lasts one to two days. It’s the most common type and usually goes away without treatment. 
2. Persistent diarrhea: Persistent diarrhea lasts about two to four weeks. 
3. Chronic diarrhea: Chronic diarrhea lasts more than four weeks or comes and goes regularly over a long period. 

Diarrhea that lasts this long may indicate a more serious condition that warrants a visit with your healthcare provider.

What causes diarrhea?

• Infections. Pathogens (viruses, bacteria and parasites) can all cause infections that lead to diarrhea. The most common cause of diarrhea in adults is the norovirus that causes gastroenteritis. Rotavirus is the most common cause of acute diarrhea in children. 
• Food poisoning. You can ingest harmful toxins and pathogens from contaminated foods or drinks. Once they’re in your gut, the toxins or germs can cause diarrhea. “Traveler’s diarrhea” is when you get diarrhea while traveling in a new environment with poor hygiene or sanitation. Usually, it’s exposure to bacteria that gives you diarrhea.
• Medications. Diarrhea is a common medication side effect. For example, antibiotics kill harmful bacteria that make you sick, but they can destroy helpful bacteria in the process. Not having enough good bacteria can lead to diarrhea. Diarrhea is also a side effect of antacids with magnesium and some cancer drugs and treatments. Overusing laxatives can also cause diarrhea. 
• Foods that upset your digestive system. If you’re lactose intolerant, you get diarrhea because your body struggles to digest lactose, the sugar in dairy. Some people have trouble digesting fructose, a sugar in honey and fruits that’s added as a sweetener to some foods. With celiac disease, you get diarrhea because your body has trouble breaking down gluten, a protein in wheat.
• Diseases affecting your bowels. Diarrhea is a common symptom of conditions that cause irritation and inflammation in your bowels (intestines). Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can all cause diarrhea. Stress and anxiety can worsen symptoms if you have a condition like IBS. 
• Procedures on your bowels. Many people have diarrhea after surgery on their bowels. It may take a while for your digestive tract to absorb nutrients from the foods you’re eating and create firm stools from the waste.

What are the symptoms of diarrhea?

The main sign of diarrhea is loose or watery stool. Other common symptoms include: Bloating or cramps in your belly. A strong and urgent need to poop. Nausea (upset stomach).

Signs and symptoms of severe diarrhea

• Fever. 
• Severe pain. 
• Vomiting. 
• Blood or mucus in your stool. 
• Weight loss (this can be a sign that your body’s not absorbing enough nutrients)

What are the complications of diarrhea?

Dehydration is one of the biggest concerns with diarrhea. This is especially true among vulnerable populations (infants, people 65 and older and people with compromised immune systems). Without treatment, dehydration can lead to kidney failure, stroke, heart attack or even death.

How the cause of diarrhea is diagnosed?

Blood tests to rule out certain conditions that cause diarrhea. A stool test to check for blood, bacterial infections and parasites. A hydrogen breath test to check for lactose or fructose intolerance and bacterial overgrowth. An endoscopy of your upper and lower digestive tract to rule out growths or other structural issues that can cause diarrhea, like ulcers or tumors.

How is diarrhea treated?

• Antibiotics or antiparasitics. These drugs kill infection-causing germs. 
• Medications that treat chronic conditions. 
• Treating underlying conditions that cause diarrhea, like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and IBS, can help. 
• Probiotics. Probiotics introduce good bacteria into your gut to combat diarrhea. Your healthcare provider may suggest you try them. Always talk to your provider before starting a probiotic or any supplement.

Can I stop diarrhea without taking anti-diarrhea medicine?

• Drink plenty of water and other electrolyte-balanced fluids. 
• Choose foods that can firm your stools. Certain low-fiber foods make stools more solid. 
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeinated foods and drinks can have a mild laxative effect that worsens diarrhea. Steer clear of coffee, sodas, strong tea/green tea and chocolate. 
• Avoid foods and drinks that give you gas. 
• Sometimes, diarrhea can make you temporarily lactose intolerant. Avoiding dairy until your diarrhea clears is a good idea.

Prevention

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or preparing and eating food. Another option is to use hand sanitizer. 
• Get vaccinated: The rotavirus vaccine prevents rotavirus, a common cause of diarrhea. The vaccine for COVID-19 can reduce your risk of getting COVID and experiencing COVID symptoms, including diarrhea. 
• Store food properly: Store food at the correct temperatures, and cook all foods until they reach the recommended temperatures. Don’t take chances by consuming foods or drinks past their expiration dates.
• Watch what you drink when you travel: Don’t drink untreated water when you travel. Avoid tap water, ice cubes or brushing your teeth with tap water. 
• Steer clear of unpasteurized milk or juice products. Pasteurization is a process that kills germs in certain drinks. When in doubt, drink bottled water or something that’s been boiled first (coffee or tea). 
• Watch what you eat when you travel. 
• Avoid raw or undercooked meats (and shellfish), as well as raw fruits and vegetables. Fruits and veggies are usually healthy options, but the skin may contain contaminants that can make you sick.