Noida/Greater Noida, Jan 09: With rising cases of waterborne illnesses, doctors are urging people to exercise caution while consuming contaminated water and food. Drinking contaminated water can lead to serious health issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, fever, abdominal pain, dehydration, jaundice, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis A and E and amoebiasis.
Patients often present with symptoms including frequent loose stools, vomiting, weakness, cramps, reduced urine output, dryness of the mouth, and in some cases yellowing of the eyes and skin. If left untreated, these conditions can rapidly worsen and may become life-threatening, particularly for children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Doctors emphasize that preventing dehydration is the first and most crucial step in managing waterborne illnesses. Adequate fluid intake using ORS solution, coconut water, lemon water, and safe drinking water is essential. Patients are advised to consume light, easily digestible food such as khichdi, curd rice, and bananas, and strictly avoid street food or uncovered meals. Drinking only boiled or properly filtered water is strongly recommended.
Dr. Abhishek Deepak, Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology, Fortis Hospital Greater Noida, said, “Waterborne diseases can escalate very quickly if early symptoms are ignored. Persistent diarrhea, vomiting, high fever, or reduced urine output are warning signs that require immediate medical attention.”
Dr Abhishek Deepak further recommends the following preventive measures:
- For prevention, maintain good hygiene practices such as regular handwashing, consuming freshly prepared and covered food, using safe drinking water, and ensuring timely vaccination where applicable.
- Seek immediate medical care if they experience persistent diarrhea, repeated vomiting, high fever, extreme weakness, very low urine output, or yellowing of the eyes or skin.
- Timely hydration, safe water consumption, and prompt treatment can prevent complications and save lives.
