Mumbai Weather Fluctuating — Here's What Doctors Recommend To Keep Cold And Flu Away

As winter blankets most parts of India, Mumbaikars are experiencing a mix of extended summer heat and sudden chilly mornings. Monday marked Mumbai's coldest December morning in eight years, with the minimum temperature dipping to 13.7 degrees Celsius.

The sudden temperature fluctuation has impacted the health of many residents, with several complaining of respiratory issues. "Whenever the temperature fluctuates, our respiratory system is most affected. The presence of air pollutants due to smog worsens allergic disorders, and viruses thrive in this environment, leading to frequent viral infections," explained Dr Shobha Subramanian Itolikar, consultant-internal medicine, Fortis Hospital Mulund, while speaking to NDTV Profit.

"In the past two weeks, we have seen significant fluctuations in Mumbai's temperature. This has led to an increase in patients reporting dry cough, cold, headache, and severe body ache," Dr Gautam Bhansali, consultant physician and intensivist at Bombay Hospital told NDTV Profit.

The India Meteorological Department, in its Monday bulletin, said that the cold spell is likely to persist throughout the week.

People with low immunity are more susceptible to viral fevers. "Besides children and the elderly, those with diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD, asthma, tuberculosis survivors, smokers, obese individuals, and cancer patients are at higher risk of developing complications like pneumonia or bronchitis,” Itolikar explained.

She advised to take a note of allergic symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, or throat irritation, as viral infections are often present with fever, throat pain, and a runny nose. But in severe cases, they can progress to serious conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis.

"In areas with high air pollution, wearing a mask while travelling is advisable. Including warm liquids in your diet, especially in the morning, can help clear phlegm and prevent viruses from thriving," Itolikar suggested.

She added, "Winter is the best time for nutrient-rich foods. A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber is essential during this season."

Itolikar highlighted the importance of lifestyle changes, such as deep breathing exercises, to cleanse the respiratory tract and improve immunity. "Deep breathing helps develop local immunity in the nose and lungs while enhancing breathing capacity," she said.

For nasal congestion or throat irritation, she advised steam inhalation, but cautioned against adding any substances to the steam.

"High-risk individuals should consult their doctors and get vaccinated annually for flu and pneumonia to prevent severe illnesses," she recommended.

Bhansali stressed on avoiding cold foods, curd, and direct air from air conditioners. "Minimise frequent temperature changes, like moving between air-conditioned rooms and outdoors," he added.

Dr Pratit Samdani, internal physician and intensivist, echoed these preventive measures. "Immunocompromised individuals should wear masks. To prevent flu, prioritise immunisation, proper handwashing, avoiding face-touching, eating hygienic food, and ensuring adequate sleep,” he told NDTV Profit.

He also recommended avoiding smoking and staying indoors during early mornings and evenings when particulate matter is denser.