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Closed: Sunday / National Holidays

Beware of summer colds and food poisoning

- Summer illnesses, know what causes them and what to do about them -.

In summer, more and more people complain of symptoms such as "I feel like I have a cold, but it's something different from winter..." or "My stomach doesn't feel right after eating...".
The most common health problems at this time of year are,summer cold (illness)food poisoningIt is.

During this season of high temperatures, the body's immune system is actually more vulnerable, creating an environment in which bacteria and viruses can easily multiply.
In this article,Characteristics of summer colds and food poisoning, how to prevent them, and what to do if you get one.in an easy-to-understand manner.

What is a summer cold?

Winter colds are often "droplet infections" such as influenza and coronaviruses, whereas summer colds are mainly "contact" or "oral" infections.
In addition, cold air conditioning, temperature differences, and lack of sleep can cause autonomic imbalance and weaken the immune system, making it easier to become infected.

Typical summer cold viruses

  • enterovirus: It causes pharyngitis, hand-foot-and-mouth disease, and herpangina. It is most common in children, but adults can also contract it.
  • adenovirusThe so-called "pool fever" (pharyngoconjunctival fever). Sore throat, fever, and conjunctivitis are the three major symptoms.

Symptoms of summer colds

  • sore throat
  • Fever (can be 38-40°C)
  • Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and other digestive symptoms are common
  • Fatigue, loss of appetite

Prevention of summer colds

  • Wash hands frequently and gargle(especially after going out or using the restroom)
  • Avoid crowds, wear masks (depending on prevalence)

Sleep, nutrition, hydration, etc.physical condition control

What is food poisoning?

Summer is a good time for food to spoil and for bacteria to multiply,The risk of food poisoning increases dramatically.

Main causative bacteria

  • salmonellaInfectious from undercooked eggs and chicken meat. Fever, diarrhea, and vomiting are the main symptoms.
  • Campylobacter: e.g., raw roasted chicken. Incubation period is rather long, 2-5 days.
  • Vibrio parahaemolyticusCaused by: seafood. Severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, and sometimes fever.
  • staphylococcus aureus: Breeds on hand-held foods such as rice balls. Toxin type, toxin may remain even after heating.

Symptoms of food poisoning

  • Vomiting, nausea
  • Diarrhea (watery or bloody)
  • Abdominal pain (insertive pain)
  • Fever, dehydration

Prevention of Food Poisoning -Three Principles

  1. No bacteria (cleanliness)
     → Hand washing, use of cutting boards and knives, clean cooking environment
  2. No increase in bacteria (preservation)
     → Thoroughly refrigerate, eat immediately after cooking, do not leave at room temperature
  3. Kills bacteria (heating)
     → Cook meat and seafood thoroughly to the center (75°C or higher for at least 1 minute).

If you get a summer cold or food poisoning

[Summer cold

  • Due to the high number of viral infections,No specific remedies, mainly symptomatic treatmentwill be.
  • The patient is to wait for recovery with antipyretics, intestinal agents, and rehydration.
  • If symptoms such as persistent high fever, coughing, or difficulty breathing are present, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Food poisoning

  • Dangerous to use over-the-counter anti-diarrhea medications on one's own judgment.It is. To eliminate bacteria and toxins from the body, it can be counterproductive to stop unnecessarily.
  • If nausea and diarrhea are severe, watch out for dehydration and utilize oral rehydration solution (OS-1, etc.).
  • If there is fever, bloody stools, or loss of consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.

■ Finally

Summer is a season of many fun events and leisure activities.
However, it will be ruined if you fall ill.

A "little carelessness" can lead to big trouble.
In addition to maintaining a good daily lifestyle, we will also work to prevent infectious diseases and food poisoning.Correct knowledge and preventive actionsWear the following.

The Ikejiri-Ohashi Sera Clinic offers a wide range of services, from treatment of summer colds and food poisoning to aftercare for dehydration and physical weakness, nutritional guidance, and consultation on resuming exercise.
If you have symptoms of concern, please feel free to contact us.

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