Latest news with #ArindamBiswas
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Docs face diagnosis challenge as viral attacks overlap with season change allergies in Kolkata kids
Kolkata: With the onset of the monsoon triggering a sudden dip in temperature, a range of viruses was unleashed, causing cough, cold, and fever. However, viral attacks are being overlapped by allergies, especially in children, triggering similar symptoms that have left both patients and doctors confused. While many have symptoms of a cold along with fever, some have the same symptoms without fever. The latter is an indication of an allergy attack rather than a viral one, say doctors. "Allergies trigger a similar bout of cough and cold but are usually not accompanied by fever. Viruses like rhinovirus, influenza, and Covid, which are now in circulation, also cause fever, though it could be low. Around 10% to 15% are getting an allergy attack, but overlapping symptoms are making it difficult to diagnose," said internal medicine consultant, Arindam Biswas. "Allergies lead to swellings in the respiratory tract and the nostrils, which are also prone to viral attacks. Viruses get attracted to swollen areas very quickly, which means one can lead to the other," he explained. Manipal Hospitals infectious diseases physician, Sayan Chakrabarty cautioned that even a mild cough can be a sign that the child's body is reacting to something more than a virus. Thus, he advised patients to don't self-medicate. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Laxmi Ji Idol For Wealth, Peace & Happiness Luxeartisanship Shop Now Undo "A cold usually develops gradually and may come with a fever, while allergies strike suddenly, last longer, and don't cause a fever at all. During the monsoon, triggers like dust mites and mould can easily spark allergies ," said Vamsidhar Kedar, consultant paediatrician, Paediatric & Adult Allergist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Hyderabad. Allergy attacks are often characterised by a series of sneezes in the morning, which doesn't recur during the rest of the day. Also, there could be body rashes, explained Chakrabarty. So, when should parents begin to worry? If your child keeps coughing without relief, sneezes mostly in the mornings, or wakes up congested day after day, it might not be just a cold, said Kedar, advising that children must not be taken to crowded places when there's a known outbreak. The infection was lasting two to three days for most children, said Fortis Hospital paediatrician Sumita Saha. "It was more severe for those below three years old. The rest are recovering quickly, though we have come across a fair number of allergy patients," she added.
India Today
04-06-2025
- General
- India Today
India's active Covid-19 cases surge to 4,302, total deaths at 44
India reported a rise of 276 active Covid cases on Wednesday, pushing the total number to 4,302, according to data released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Seven deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours, with Maharashtra alone accounting for four. Tamil Nadu, Delhi, and Gujarat reported one fatality each, increasing the tally to and Delhi reported the highest daily surge with 64 new cases each, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 63 and West Bengal with 60. Kerala continued to top the list of states with the highest number of active cases, followed by Maharashtra (510), Gujarat (461), and Delhi (457). Arunachal Pradesh has not reported any Covid cases so on the rising Covid cases, Dr. Arindam Biswas from Kolkata said, "Covid is here to stay. The number of cases will continue to rise and fall over time, but there's no need for panic. What's important is to prevent its spread. People must follow government guidelines and wear masks to stay protected."In response to the rising case count, Kerala health department has issued directives to all government and private drills are to be conducted across institutions to assess preparedness. Hospitals are instructed to follow the Revised ABC Guidelines 03, issued in June 2023, for treating patients with COVID-19 and influenza guidelines emphasise monitoring red flag signs such as breathlessness, chest pain, drowsiness, low blood pressure, hemoptysis, and cyanosis in adults. In children, symptoms like somnolence, high persistent fever, feeding difficulties, convulsions, and respiratory distress warrant InMust Watch advertisementIN THIS STORY#Gujarat#Maharashtra#Delhi#Kerala#Tamil Nadu#Madhya Pradesh
Indian Express
07-05-2025
- Climate
- Indian Express
Heatwave to hit South Bengal from May 8: IMD
The forecast indicates a significant rise in both temperature and humidity, with deviations expected to be around 4 to 6 degrees above the seasonal average. According to the special IMD bulletin, the worst-affected districts will be Paschim Bardhaman, Purulia, Bankura, and Birbhum, where maximum temperatures are likely to soar to 40 degrees Celsius or higher. The region is also expected to experience elevated humidity levels. The maximum relative humidity in coastal districts could range between 80-90% while interior districts may record levels around 70-80%. These combined factors are expected to result in sultry and uncomfortable weather conditions, increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses. 'The upcoming heatwave may severely impact vulnerable sections of the population, including infants, the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, and those exposed to the sun for prolonged periods such as construction workers, farmers, and traffic personnel. There is a heightened risk of heat exhaustion, cramps, heatstroke, dehydration, and heat-related skin ailments like heat rash,' the regional meteorological centre stated in its bulletin. As part of its advisory, the IMD has urged the public to take necessary precautions. People are advised to avoid stepping outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm, which are the peak hours of heat exposure. It is recommended to stay indoors in well-ventilated or shaded areas as much as possible, wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored cotton clothing, and keep heads covered when stepping outdoors. Doctors have also weighed in with additional health advice. 'It is essential to consume a lot of mineral-rich fruits, vegetables, water, and natural juices to beat the heatwave,' said Dr Arindam Biswas of R N Tagore Hospital. Echoing this, Dr Pratim Sengupta of Bellevue Clinic said, 'Always carry a bottle of water during the heatwave and keep yourself hydrated.'
