Monsoon Respiratory Care: Essential Practices for Better Breathing

Monsoon Respiratory Care: Monsoon may increase fungal and bacterial activity, which can enhance problems related to respiratory distress for people who may be otherwise healthy as well. The moisture content gives many diseases room to grow and allows hazardous germs to flourish. The rainy season is also the season of dengue, infections, malaria, respiratory illness, and more. Seasonal changes often create an opening for bacteria to thrive. But, the entire monsoon season entails such infections. A damp environment and continuous moisture and humidity in the air create the perfect conditions for the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mosquitoes, which in turn promotes the spread of illnesses.

Dr. Sheetu Singh, a renowned pulmonologist, offers invaluable guidance on maintaining respiratory wellness during the monsoon season. Asthma, bronchitis, and allergies can all get worse during the monsoon because of the increased humidity and moisture. Dr. Sheetu Singh emphasizes the importance of keeping living spaces dry and well-ventilated to prevent mold and mildew growth, which can trigger respiratory problems. She also emphasizes how important it is to keep a balanced diet high in antioxidants and to stay hydrated to boost immunity.

Monsoon can transmit diseases via various modes:

• Mosquito-borne diseases include Dengue, Malaria, and Chikungunya.
• Water-borne diseases include Cholera, Typhoid, Jaundice, Hepatitis A, and Gastrointestinal infections.
• Airborne diseases include influenza/common flu, cold, viral fever, cough, and sore throat. The general symptoms include chills, high fever, fatigue, and body aches.

The rainy season may includes indoor allergens like molds, dust, and cockroaches. They may become more prevalent in humid environments, which might trigger allergies and raise the possibility of an asthma attack. Pollen may be struck by rain or lightning, breaking it into smaller-than-usual fragments. When it rains, these outdoor allergens with greater circulating pollens can aggravate asthma attacks and cause respiratory problems.

Cold air/breezy air due to rains triggers the release of histamine due to breathlessness, wheezing, or cough reflex. Additionally, moisture encourages the growth of germs and fungi, which raises the incidence of respiratory conditions like asthma. There is an increased risk of flare-ups for obstructive airway illnesses during rainy seasons due to the typical increase in allergens and viral infections. 

However, there are ways to prevent illness and flare-ups of respiratory allergies:

• Dehumidifier: This should be used to maintain a high standard of indoor air quality to keep rooms from becoming too damp and humid. Anyone who experiences difficulty breathing will benefit from this.
• Regularly clear filters of the air conditioner. 
• Vitamin D Supplementation: When it rains, this can help make up for the reduced amount of sunlight exposure.
• Pollen grains that are carried by the wind have the potential to enter the lungs and cause symptoms. If one of your triggers is pollen, remain inside during heavy downpours and keep your windows closed.
• Avoid pollution, smoking zones, dusty areas, and pollen-laden areas during the rainy season.
• Covering nose and mouth, or using masks, especially while sneezing.
• Avoid wearing damp clothes, change and wash masks regularly.
• Hygiene: Wash your feet and hands frequently.
• Hydrate adequately.
• Avoid drinking outside water and carrying boiled drinking water.
• Eat a balanced diet, or consume adequate nutrition.
• Stick to home-cooked food.
• Consume fresh veggies and try to limit how long you store fruits and veggies.
• Ginger and Garlic have anti-inflammatory compounds. Herbal drinks like black pepper, ginger, and honey with warm water can be good preventive dietary measures.
• Steam inhalation can assist prevent/ease breathing symptoms. 

Common Respiratory Illness During Monsoon

• Asthma flare-up- allergens, cold weather, dampness, and elevated pollens trigger asthma wheezing and worsen it.
• Influenza: High humidity and fluctuating temperatures provide an ideal environment for viruses to proliferate and spread.
• Common Cold: It is more of a contagious disease that can infect anyone and spread to others. Hence, it is best to stay inside while one is coughing and feeling under the weather.
• Pneumonia: The monsoon season provides breeding grounds for mosquitoes and other insects that can spread diseases, such as bacteria that cause pneumonia, due to the stagnant water and increased wetness. 

Tips to Manage Respiratory Illness

• Warm Foods and Drinks: To lessen the effects of asthma, stay away from cold food and beverages. Maintain a healthy and nutritious diet. Brown rice, green leafy vegetables, protein-rich food, sprouts, carrots, cauliflower, cabbage, and eggs all help in boosting immunity.
• Steam: Steam inhalation provides the airways with a calming and relaxing sensation. However, avoid the use of various salts or oils as this can cause irritation of the airways and lead to wheezing.
• Clean Surrounding: Damp walls, mites, and house dust are triggers of an Asthma flare-up. Frequent vacuuming, air conditioner filter cleaning, and bedsheet and pillowcase changes all help lower the risk of dust and mold exposure. Stay away from people who are sick.
• Avoid Allergens: Steer clear of pollen-filled plants, dusty, and pollutant-filled locations, and abstain from smoking. Also, try to avoid coming in contact with pets, especially furry ones.
• Vaccinations: Immunizations against pneumonia and the seasonal flu on a regular basis help lower the risk of infection, which in turn causes asthma. 
• Healthy Diet: Increase intake of green leafy vegetables, blueberries, nuts, seeds, and other nutrients for boosting lung health. A balanced diet comprising fruits, lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help. Vitamin C, which is found in citrus fruits and leafy greens, can boost immunity and lessen inflammation.

FAQs

Why do respiratory problems increase during the monsoon season?

The monsoon season is usually associated with an increase in respiratory issues because of the increasing humidity, which can encourage the growth of dust mites, mold, and mildew.

What are some common respiratory issues faced during the monsoon?

Common respiratory issues during the monsoon include allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, Asthma, sinusitis, and respiratory tract infections.

How can I prevent respiratory infections during the monsoon?

Use an umbrella or raincoat, practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, and avoid getting wet in the rain to prevent respiratory infections during the monsoon.

Is it safe to use air conditioners during the monsoon?

Yes, it is safe to use air conditioners during the monsoon, but it is important to maintain them properly.

What dietary changes can assist improve respiratory health during the monsoon?

Include foods high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to strengthen your immune system. Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains in your diet. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and warm fluids like herbal teas. Avoid refrigerated and cold foods, as they can aggravate respiratory issues.