Hyderabad: Wading in rainwater causes allergies

Hyderabad: A severe itching sensation on the skin is being reported by those who are wading through rain/drainage water in the city.

This itching is due to an allergic reaction to chemicals found in the sewage water. It can also be attributed to contaminants that are carried from different places by the rain.

People are complaining of constant scratching, particularly from below their knees, after they wade in the rainwater to get to their places of work or residence. 

Dr. B Raju, General Physician explained, “Often, the sensation is of slight itching, but in some cases it is found to cause rashes, red patches in the skin and in the worst cases leads to peeling of the skin.

These cases mostly come from areas where people live close to huge open nalas, where water gushes out during the rainy season.

It is also common in people who are living close to lakes, as the water flows into their homes.”

The sewage workers who come to clean the open drains, also complain of this problem. This is one of their major occupational hazards. They are required to wear gloves while removing the silt from the drains, but most of them are not provided with any. Dr. B Murthy, senior dermatologist, explained,

“Those women who are constantly using cleaning liquids at home, are found to suffer from allergic reactions in their hands.

“This category of people are also found to suffer from itching and red patches when their skin comes into contact with drainage water.

The exposure to chemicals indicates that their skin is very sensitive, so they must be careful.”

He advises, “Avoiding going out in the rain, if possible and not exposing your skin to drainage/rain water is the best precaution.”