Harmattan is characterized with dry air and dust-laden wind. This season promote the onset and progression of various disease conditions including;
- Cough/catarrh
- Conjunctivitis(apolo)
- Respiratory tract infections
- Skin diseases
- Constipation
- Hemorrhoids/pile
- Predisposes one to kidney diseases
- Cardiovascular disturbances
During this season, the body system losses some of its water to perspiration and evaporation, leading to mass dehydration (we notice that our urine turns dark amber) which when not checked reduces the kidney functions as the plasma volume reduces, lowering the GFR. This in turn may precipitate increased heart rate and other cardiovascular conditions.
Constipation is also common during harmattan, during which defecation (stooling) becomes very strenuous and may result to tear/expansion beyond elastic limit of the anal sphincter which may result to pile.
The dust-laden air we inhale during this season contains allergens, microbial particles and other substances that are capable of triggering inflammatory responses that manifest as either cough or catarrh. These particles (especially the microbial) when in contact with the eyes, will mostly cause conjunctivitis (apolo).
The dust-laden air we inhale during this season contains allergens, microbial particles and other substances that are capable of triggering inflammatory responses that manifest as either cough or catarrh. These particles (especially the microbial) when in contact with the eyes, will mostly cause conjunctivitis (apolo).
When the inflammatory/mechanical response of the body is unable to prevent the dust from getting to the lower respiratory tract, it gets trapped and causes respiratory disturbances.
During harmattan, our skin looses to some extent, it's moistening capability, appearing tough and vulnerable to tear and easily bleed.
During this season, people yield to the use of medicines like cough syrups, piriton, eye drops, suppositories, lozenges and antibiotics; most of which have their respective side effects.
Guides to preventing harmattan-induced health conditions.
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During harmattan, our skin looses to some extent, it's moistening capability, appearing tough and vulnerable to tear and easily bleed.
During this season, people yield to the use of medicines like cough syrups, piriton, eye drops, suppositories, lozenges and antibiotics; most of which have their respective side effects.
Guides to preventing harmattan-induced health conditions.
- DRINK PLENTY OF WATER REGULARLY: Water will keep the body hydrated thereby preventing dehydration and protects the individual from all the above listed conditions, "Your neighbor carries bottle water to wherever he goes not because he enjoys carrying load, but because he understands the need to keep the system hydrated this season"
- WASH YOUR HANDS REGULARLY: This habit will protect you from contracting conjunctivitis (conjunctivitis is easily transmitted through handshake)
- INCLUDE FIBER IN DIET: Eat more fibre containing fruits like oranges and apple to prevent constipation and the resultant hemorrhoid
- AVOID DUST: Lessen your exposure to dust,
- USE OF CLEAN HANDKERCHIEFS: Endeavour to make use of clean handkerchief while cleaning your eyes of dusts, DO NOT USE YOUR BARE FINGERS
Pharm. Chuka Amukamara
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