Skin infections jump 80 per cent, children, women affected

Hyderabad: Instances of skin diseases have increased by 80 per cent this summer, say dermatologists. The shock rise is due to the extreme temperatures and sun-burns, rashes and boils are major complaints.

Dr B.N. Murthy, a senior dermatologist from the city, said, “Children are arriving with complaints of various types of summer boils, heat rashes, fungal, viral and bacterial infections of the skin. It has also been found that children are not drinking sufficient water due to which there is an increase in boils.” Heat boils are common, but this year, with schools still on, children are out during the hot hours.

Also, metal allergies from jewellery are being seen in women with sensitive skin. Dr Laxmi Sharda said, “Some women are very sensitive and they can’t wear artificial jewellery. In summer these women are advised minimal jewellery.”

An increase in photo-sensitive diseases has also seen a sharp rise this April —  patients have been complaining of innumerable boils on forehead and underarms. Dermatologist Dr G. Madhuri said, “People who eat spicy food and who do not drink enough liquids are prone to such boils.”