Drop in infections
In some ways, it has been a blessing in disguise. All the hand washing, physical distancing, taking other precautions and maintaining hygiene have actually worked to reduce some infections, particularly flu. What has also helped is that pollution has gone down. People are staying home, not travelling in crowded metros or visiting busy markets. This has led to a drop in some respiratory infections.
Seasonal allergies, too, are not typical to this season—the months of March, April and May see a rise in pollen that leads to allergies. During monsoon, we see a rise in vector-borne diseases and patients with flu as well. October onwards, we anticipate a rise in patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and pneumonia.
Before Covid-19 struck, we were treating several patients for asthma, COPD, lung cancer and other respiratory problems [in hospitals]. Since the pandemic, many of those receiving regular treatment are staying away from hospitals because of the fear of contracting the virus. It is true that patients suffering from chronic lung diseases, severe asthma and TB are more prone to severe Covid-19. Age also plays a role—the vulnerability increases with each decade after the fifth (50 years), along with the presence of comorbidities. However, regular medication and video consults for follow-ups are advised for chronic disease patients.
Panic buying
What I notice is that people are buying pulse oximeters and oxygen cylinders out of sheer panic due to Covid-19. For normal people, these things are not required. People cannot administer oxygen by themselves at home; you need to be in a hospital if you require oxygen. However, if you have a pulse oximeter at home, you need to ensure that oxygen levels are between 97-98 per cent. If the oxygen levels are at 95 per cent, with fever, then it indicates mild disease. If it is between 90-94 per cent, then it is moderate, and if under 90, then it is severe. Those suffering from mild disease can be managed at home, provided there is adequate facility for isolation. Those with moderate disease need to be taken to a hospital, and those with severe disease need intensive care.
Immunity boosters
There is some evidence that vitamins such as D and C and zinc can help fight infections in a better way. However, there is no definite proof that they can increase immunity. People with these vitamin deficiencies can take supplements. But these should be taken under medical supervision. Besides these, good food, good sleep and good exercise also help in staying healthy and avoiding diseases. Deep breathing can help open up lungs; it also reduces stress. Respirometers are useful in a group of patients; for healthy people, they are of no use.
—As told to Namita Kohli