Dip in temperature triggering rise in viral fevers and heart problems

Hyderabad: The drop in temperatures has resulted in an increase in viral and other fevers, with the homeless being particularly vulnerable to the cold. Doctors have advised those vulnerable to the cold, mainly children and the elderly, to take some precautions.

There has been an increase in upper respiratory infections, allergic problems such as allergic rhinitis and allergic sinusitis, viral infections, and asthma-related issues, said Dr K Shivaraj, a general physician.

More serious issues that may be triggered by the weather include blood pressure fluctuations caused by constricted blood vessels, heart problems, and pneumonia, particularly in smokers or those with pre-existing lung problems.

To avoid this, Dr Shivaraj advised those in the vulnerable group not to go for walks too early in the morning, to avoid refrigerated food, and to get vaccinated against the flu.

According to paediatrician Dr Sivaranjani Santosh, allergies, bacterial infections, and cough and cold have increased in children. "Allergies are definitely worse this time of year because of increased pollution from increased construction activity. There are a lot of cases of dust mite allergies."

The homeless are among those who are most affected by the cold weather. The GHMC runs 13 home shelters. For several years, the civic body has identified only 600 homeless people though a survey conducted last year by the GHMC's Urban Community Development (UCD) wing identified 1,532 homeless people living in the city.