Bracing up for winter

Taking care

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), common cold, cough, sinusitis, bronchitis, asthma, influenza, allergic rhinitis and viral fever are some of the common diseases which people fall prey to during winter. The chilled atmosphere adds to the misery. ‘Better be safe than sorry’, is the mantra to go by this winter.

Physical ailments have to be diagnosed in their early stages and treatment should be given accordingly, say doctors. Saleem, a medical officer with Mallya Hospital, says, “If the disease is a prolonged one and not taken care of at the right time, it could lead to secondary diseases. One should avoid consumption of cold water, ice-cream and exposure to dust, smoke and emission from vehicles. Food served at fast food joints and carts should be avoided in order to prevent abdominal pain. Vegetables and fruits have to be washed thoroughly before consumption.”

While most people go in for allopathy, home-based remedies too seem to be a growing option. Salt-water gargling can help prevent the spread of infection. Children between one and five years must be kept away from those infected.

Many dieticians and fitness experts are of the opinion that consuming a pinch of ginger helps keep the body warm during winter. Intake of two litres of water a day is important. Water consumption helps in preventing dryness of the skin. Dieticians also suggest intake of sufficient amount of milk to prevent muscle and joint pain.

A balanced diet complete with carbohydrates, vitamin and proteins keeps the body in balance. Lisa Sarah John, a diet counsellor and nutritionist, says, “Raw salad with two meals a day are rich in vitamins and minerals. It helps the body maintain resistance power during winter.”

Many in the City are opting for home-based therapies to avoid common cold during winter.

Sharada G, a homemaker says, “Home-based medicines are helpful in preventing the diseases. I prefer Ayurvedic medicines thoughthe treatment is a time-consuming process. Drinking lukewarm water helps in relieving symptoms of many diseases and keeps the body in good condition.”

Dos
*Washing hands regularly can avoid the spread of viral diseases.
*Drinking two litres of water every day prevents dryness of skin.
Don’ts
*Avoid eating roadside food. 
*Stay away from junk food.