Watch what you eat, say doctors, as Noida's temperature goes past 40°C

Noida: With city temperatures soaring past 40°C, hospitals are witnessing a 30% rise in gastrointestinal cases. Over the past few days, emergency wards and outpatient departments in both government and private hospitals have seen patients complaining of vomiting, diarrhoea and other gut-related illnesses. As IMD warns of an impending heatwave in the NCR region, health experts have urged people to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours and stick to light, gut-friendly meals to prevent illness.

Over the past few days, emergency rooms and outpatient departments in govt and private hospitals have seen patients experiencing vomiting, diarrhoea, and other gut-related illnesses.

"On average, there are around 150 patients visiting outpatient departments (OPDs) seeking treatment for acute gastrointestinal infections. Most patients are complaining of diarrhoea-like symptoms," said Dr Pradeep Shailat, who practices at the district hospital.

Doctors attribute this surge primarily to food contamination caused by extreme heat, consumption of street food and unsafe drinking water. "The recent rise in gastrointestinal (GI) cases during the summer is mainly due to consuming contaminated food and beverages. Hot weather promotes bacterial growth, increasing the risk of infections through improperly stored or prepared foods, especially those sold by street vendors or left uncovered for long periods. Gastrointestinal issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach cramps are usually triggered by consuming food or drinks contaminated with harmful bacteria, viruses, or parasites. These pathogens enter the digestive system through infected hands, water, or utensils, causing acute symptoms that often require medical attention," said Dr Subhasish Mazumder, senior director of gastroenterology at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Vaishali.

IMD has warned of an impending heatwave in the NCR region, health experts are urging people to stay indoors during peak afternoon hours and stick to light, gut-friendly meals to prevent illness.