By Jyothsna Manikkath
April heralds the arrival of summer in the south of this country (where the author is based) and with it come, soaring temperatures and sweltering heat. Summer months here, are also the time for school and college vacations, weddings, house warmings and revelry in general. However, figures from the Indian Metrological Department says that southern Indian states are witnessing a heat wave, with temperatures crossing the 40 °C mark. On this note, the author decided to talk to community pharmacists from the town of Manipal in southern India and find out what they have to say about summer.
Be wary of heat related health conditions:
According to Mr. Ravi Nayak*, a veteran pharmacist of one of the oldest pharmacies* in Manipal, summer months witness a rise in the number of heat-related health conditions.
Heat stroke: This is caused by overheating of the body, due to either prolonged high temperatures or physical exertion. While heat itself is the main culprit, certain medications like vasoconstrictors (which narrow down blood vessels), diuretics (which increase urine output), beta blockers and antipsychotics, may aggravate this condition. ‘Therefore, it is better to exercise caution before venturing out in the sun while on any medication’, says Mr. Nayak.
Food poisoning: An unpleasant consequence of the heat is water scarcity, which implies that outdoor food may not be prepared under hygienic conditions. ‘Naturally, people should be cautious while eating out-of-doors as many cases of food poisoning are being reported in these parts’, says Ms. Varsha* of another pharmacy* located in the heart of the town. Nevertheless, she also adds that people are more likely to manage these conditions using home remedies, as many of these infections are self-limiting.
Dehydration and heat exhaustion: Dehydration happens when there is excess loss of water, which is not compensated by adequate intake. This is especially dangerous for children and older adults. While drinking water is definitely the best way to prevent dehydration, Mr. Nayak also says that oral rehydration solution (ORS) containing carbohydrate, sodium, potassium, chloride in specific concentrations may better serve to combat this condition. While commercial ORS is available in pharmacies and even some grocery stores, the World Health Organization also describes a homemade solution, which may be used in the absence of standardized preparations.
Common cold: Seasonal changes always bring about infections, the most common being the common cold! Although it is more prevalent in winter where the air is cold and dry, summers are not a stranger for this ailment! Again, ‘children and the elderly are the most susceptible lot’, says Ms. Varsha. Contrary to popular perception, antibiotics will not help, as common cold is caused by viruses. ‘Since there is no conclusive evidence on the usefulness of vaccines for cold, prevention is the best strategy’, she says. This includes washing hands regularly or use a hand sanitizer, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and improving one’s immunity by regular exercise.
Rashes and itching: These conditions were reported most commonly as seeing a drastic increase in the summer months. Heat rash, also called prickly heat can occur when sweat ducts anywhere on the body get blocked. The mix of sunlight, heat and allergies can also cause rashes. While topically applied prickly heat powders are the top pick of consumers, some people also use over-the-counter antihistamines or steroid creams for better relief. However, Ms. Varsha adds a word of caution that persistent or severe rashes are better dealt with a visit to the dermatologist. Rashes and itching could also indicate an underlying condition or allergies which need medical supervision.
Sunburn: Indians in general, are protected against ultraviolet radiation and related issues as a result of the high melanin content in their skin. This, however, does not deter us from playing it safe and using sunscreens, while venturing outdoors, especially to seashores and beaches. Most pharmacies stock sunscreens and report higher sales of these products during summer months. Sunscreens come as lotions, creams, powders and also as part of cosmetic foundation creams. Mr. Pai*, manager of yet another pharmacy* with an entire section dedicated to cosmetics, says, ‘more consumers are becoming aware of factors like SPF (Sun Protection Factor), and this plays the greatest role in their choice of sunscreen product’. However, he also adds that the best way to stay protected from the sun is to effectively cover up. Sharan Rao*, a young pharmacy graduate and a recent addition to Mr. Pai’s pharmacy joins to say that consumer awareness has gone up considerably in the last few years. ‘Nowadays consumers take a look at the list of ingredients before buying any product’, he says. Seeing Rao’s enthusiasm in his role, Mr. Pai adds on a side note, that he believes in the potential of young pharmacists to take the profession forward. ‘While we bring experience, they (young pharmacists) bring a lot of energy and zeal into their work’, he says.
In a pharmacy bustling with activity, veteran pharmacist Mr. Nayak smiles when he talks about the effective way to manage these heat-related conditions. ‘Prevention’, he quips, ‘is always better than cure’. While there definitely are medications to combat each of these conditions, they should be used only when necessary. Drinking water and staying hydrated top the list of preventive measures. ‘There’s a reason why water is called the elixir of life’, he says. ‘Also, eating fruits and vegetables with high water content, using clothes made of natural breathable fabrics, planning the day’s activities to avoid excessive sun exposure, all go a long way. Take necessary precautions and you can make summer the most enjoyable time of the year!’ he adds.
Footnotes: #Traditional Indian greeting
All names and identifiers changed to protect privacy.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this write-up are not to be used in the place of medical advice.
The Author is Assistant Professor and PhD Scholar
In Department of Pharmaceutics
At Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences
