JOIN USWith Holi round the corner, those playing with colours need to take precautions, said doctors. OPDs are likely to swell up with children complaining of respiratory problems after Holi, they said.
Skin allergies and irritation in the eyes are the other major problems that people face.
But the health hazards are more for those who already suffer from respiratory problems. Children and adults are both vulnerable to it, said doctors.
“Those suffering from asthma should not play with colours. It might further aggravate this condition,” said Dr A P Dubey, head of paediatric unit, Lok Nayak Hospital.
With seasonal change, viral infections are already on the rise.
“Therefore the chances of falling prey to infection after playing with colours increases. Patients with bronchial asthma are the worst victims of upper respiratory infections during this season. So we put children suffering from asthma on preventive medicine till 15 days after Holi,” said Dr Alok Agarwal, peadiatric head, Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital.
Eye irritation is common due to the presence of crushed glass in coloured powder. Wearing glasses can be a preventive measure. However, if the irritation persists, it is best to consult a practitioner and not to buy over-the-counter drugs.
“After playing with colours, one should immediately wash off the colours. If there is itching on the skin, one can apply moisturiser. However, it is best not to take over-the-counter eyedrops if there is irritation,” said Dr Dubey.
Children should play Holi fully clothed so that they are minimally exposed to the colours. Wet or metallic colours should also be avoided and the safer colours are red and pink.
“As a precautionary measure, one should apply a thick layer of oil or moisturiser on the skin. Wearing a water resistant sunscreen before one plays Holi would be ideal.
Also, one should be careful to not wear contact lens while playing with colours. One should not rub vigorously to take off colours,” said Dr Sunil Sanghi, senior consultant, dermatology, Fortis Memorial Research Institute.
DH News Service