On Monday night, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake struck Japan, leading to a tsunami warning. Fortunately, authorities reported minimal damage, and the warning was soon lifted. According to local media, there was only one minor injury involving a man who fell at his own home.

Japan, located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences approximately 1,500 tremors annually. However, these quakes have a long-lasting impact on one's health—both physical and mental.

Health Impacts Of Earthquakes

1. Wound Infections

Earthquake-related injuries range from cuts and bruises to fractures and crush injuries. If not attended to on time, these wounds can lead to infections like sepsis, tetanus, or even amputations if untreated. Regions with scarce medical resources face higher risks of untreated injuries and antimicrobial resistance. Ensuring prompt medical care and deploying teams to assess building safety is critical to preventing further injuries and fatalities.

A recent study examined infections in 225 earthquake survivors with musculoskeletal injuries treated between February and April 2023. It found that gram-negative bacteria were common in the wounds of the victims. Acinetobacter baumannii (49.4%) and enterococci (28.6%) were the most prevalent. Many pathogens were multidrug-resistant, with 76% from wound cultures and 58% from deep tissue cultures showing resistance. Common infections included surgical site infections (32.8%), urinary tract infections (5.3%), bloodstream infections (5.7%), and pneumonia (0.4%). Intensive care was required for 35.6% of patients, with a mortality rate of 2.7%.

2. Infectious Diseases

Earthquakes disrupt water supplies, leading to unsanitary conditions that spread waterborne diseases such as cholera. Meanwhile, it also pushes people to take shelters in dingy places, which can outbreaks of measles, respiratory illnesses, and parasitic infections like leishmaniasis. Cold conditions and stress suppress immunity, increasing the risk of disease spread.

3. Chronic Conditions

Access to medication and medical care is often disrupted by earthquakes. Studies show increased rates of heart attacks, strokes, and diabetes following earthquakes due to stress and disrupted routines. Destruction of health records and facilities exacerbates these issues, especially in disaster-prone regions.

4. Healthcare Disruption

Damaged medical facilities and transport links hinder healthcare delivery. Pregnant women and individuals with chronic diseases face heightened risks. Refugees and displaced populations encounter accessibility barriers to healthcare services.

5. Psychological Trauma

Survivors of these earthquakes often suffer from anxiety, depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Tailored mental health programs are crucial for recovery, especially for those already living in conflict zones or displacement.

On April 14 2010, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake struck Qinghai Province, China, devastating Yushu County. A psychological relief study, published in the Journal Of Affective Disorders in 2011, assessed the mental health of 505 survivors three to four months post-disaster. Using tools like the PTSD Checklist-Civilian version (PCL-C) and Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25 (HSCL-25), the study found prevalence rates of 33.7% for probable PTSD, 43.8% for anxiety, and 38.6% for depression, with one-fifth of participants experiencing all three. Key risk factors included being female, experiencing intense fear during the quake, and having limited social support, as measured by the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS).

Doctors in Mumbai are reporting a simultaneous rise in Covid-19, H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, and other respiratory viral infections.

As per the doctors, there is up to a 30 per cent surge in cases of COVID-19 and H1N1 as well as viral infections in the city. The doctors attributed the surge in infectious diseases to seasonal changes.

“We are currently observing a 20-30 per cent surge in Covid-19 and H1N1 (swine flu) respiratory viral infections in the city, mainly due to seasonal changes, increased humidity, and exposure to crowded places,” Dr. Aniket Mule, Consultant Internal Medicine, KIMS Hospital Thane, told HealthandMe.

Dr. Amit Saraf, Director of the Department of Internal Medicine, Jupiter Hospital, Thane, reported a rise in influenza-like illness (ILI) in the hospital.

“There is a seasonal rise in respiratory infection cases in Mumbai. Most of the people have routine viral infections, and around 10-15% of the people who are coming to OPDs have been coming positive for influenza-like illness (ILI) due to the changing weather,” Dr. Amit told HealthandMe.

Dr. Rohit Deshpande, Consultant Internal Medicine, Lilavati Hospital and Research Centre in Mumbai, told HealthandMe that the hospital is seeing a rise in swine flu cases.

“On average, 7 to 8 cases are being detected in the OPD daily. Most patients present with symptoms such as fever, cough, body ache, and fatigue”.

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What Are The Symptoms?

The experts reported that the commonly seen symptoms include:

• persistent fever,
• dry or wet cough,
• sore throat,
• fatigue,
• body ache
• mild breathlessness

Who Is More Vulnerable?

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Dr. Amit noted that people with chronic illnesses, elderly people, pregnant women and young children are still more susceptible to complications.

Dr. Rohit noted that people with diabetes and those with conditions such as COPD, asthma and heart diseases are also at higher risk of infection.

How To Prevent?

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The experts noted that most of the cases now are mild and can be handled with timely consultation, rest and supporting care.

But older people, pregnant women, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions should take extra care. Those with an ongoing fever, cough, sore throat, breathlessness, or extreme tiredness should seek immediate medical advice, Dr. Aniket said.

“Simple preventive measures like hand hygiene, use of masks in crowded places, proper hydration and timely medical consultation can help a lot in reducing the risk of complications,” he told HealthandMe.

Preventive measures for the general population include:

• Avoid self-medication
• If you experience a persistent cough or breathing difficulties, consult a doctor regarding the need for anti-viral or anti-allergy medications.
• Get vaccinated every year to boost Immunity and reduce the risk of infection.
• Avoid crowded and dusty places, redevelopment areas, or places with pigeon droppings.
• Use hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently and thoroughly, and wear a mask in crowded or dusty environments
• Do warm saline gargles with salt or betadine twice or thrice a day
• Take steam hydration if required too
• Maintain hydration to avoid weakness, fatigue, or headache
• To boost immunity - consume green leafy vegetables & Vitamin C-rich fruits along with Vitamin D supplements

The common perception about varicose veins is that they are merely an aesthetic or cosmetic problem. Varicose veins are indeed enlarged, twisted blood vessels that many people believe are not life-threatening. But the reality is that the condition may be a symptom of something more serious.

The disease manifests itself through insufficient blood supply in the body caused by faulty valves. As the blood vessels cannot effectively move the blood from the veins back to the heart, the blood tends to accumulate in the veins themselves. Other symptoms may include pain, heaviness, swelling, and skin sores in severe cases.

What Are The Causes Of Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins don’t develop overnight; they are usually the result of multiple underlying factors that gradually affect vein health and blood flow:

1. Valve dysfunction and poor circulation: Healthy veins rely on tiny valves to prevent backflow. When these valves weaken, blood starts collecting in the veins, leading to increased pressure and visible swelling.

2. Prolonged standing or sitting: These days, occupations require long hours of standing, which can hinder proper blood circulation and increase the risk.

3. Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menopause, or while using hormonal therapies can relax vein walls, making them more prone to dysfunction.

4. Genetics: A family history of varicose veins significantly raises the likelihood of developing them, indicating a hereditary component in vein wall strength and valve efficiency.

5. Obesity and lack of physical activity: Excess body weight puts additional pressure on veins, while a sedentary lifestyle reduces the efficiency of blood circulation, leading to vein damage over time.

6. Ageing: As people age, veins lose elasticity, and valves may wear out, making older adults more susceptible to developing varicose veins.

What Are The Tips To Take Care Of?

People can manage or reverse varicose veins by:

• Making sure blood is circulating well in the body: An inactive lifestyle or standing for long periods can lead to increased risks of vein disease. Exercise and movement, along with raising the legs, will ensure that blood continues circulating well.

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Obesity can lead to increased pressure on the veins of the legs. Maintaining a healthy body weight is important to avoid and treat varicose veins.

• Wear compression stockings: Compression stockings apply gentle pressure to the veins, which enables them to circulate blood effectively and avoid swelling and other conditions.

• See a vein specialist if necessary: In cases of persistent pain, discoloration of skin, severe itching, or sores that don't heal, it is advised to see a vein specialist, as these symptoms could signal something worse.

How Can It Be Treated?

Varicose vein treatment procedures have become much easier in the modern world. Varicose veins can now be treated with minimally invasive procedures that address the problem at its root cause. These minimally invasive treatments include EVLT (Endovenous Laser Treatment), Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA), and glue ablation. A laser fibre is inserted into the varicose vein during this operation, where it effectively closes it off.

Blood is automatically redirected through other veins after this treatment, which is relatively quick and involves local anesthesia. Patients generally recover within one day. However, EVLT is much less painful, safer, and does not involve leaving scars behind.

Varicose veins are often a symptom of vein disease and thus not just a cosmetic problem. They can be a visible sign of an underlying circulatory issue. Paying attention to early symptoms and seeking medical advice can help prevent complications and improve overall vascular health. Preventing further problems is easy when one knows what to do.

Knee problems were once considered an issue associated with old age. However, an increasing number of Indians in their 30s are experiencing knee pain, stiffness, and cartilage damage similar to arthritis. Doctors are reporting more cases of young adults seeking treatment for knee-related issues that can affect mobility and quality of life.

Sedentary Lifestyle And Lack of Physical Activity

One of the biggest reasons behind early knee damage is a sedentary lifestyle. Many young professionals spend long hours sitting at desks, working on computers, or using mobile devices. Lack of regular movement weakens the muscles around the knees, reducing the support they provide to the joint.

At the same time, some individuals suddenly engage in intense workouts without proper conditioning. This puts excessive stress on the knees, increasing the risk of injuries and long-term wear and tear. Maintaining a balanced exercise routine with strength training and stretching can help protect knee health.

Rising Obesity And Excess Weight

India has witnessed a rise in obesity among young adults. Excess body weight places additional pressure on the knee joints, which are responsible for supporting most of the body’s weight. Even a small increase in weight can significantly increase stress on the knees during activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or running.

Over time, this extra pressure can lead to cartilage deterioration, inflammation, and chronic pain. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and regular exercise can reduce the risk of developing arthritis-like symptoms at an early age.

Poor Posture And Nutritional Deficiencies

Poor posture while sitting, standing, or exercising can also contribute to knee problems. Improper movement patterns may cause uneven stress on the joints, leading to gradual damage. Additionally, untreated sports injuries or ligament tears can accelerate knee degeneration if not managed properly.

Nutritional deficiencies, particularly low levels of vitamin D and calcium, are another concern. These nutrients play a vital role in maintaining strong bones and joint health. Deficiencies can weaken the musculoskeletal system and make individuals more susceptible to knee-related issues.

Steps to Protect Knee Health

Preventing early knee damage requires a combination of healthy habits. Individuals should engage in regular low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, or cycling to strengthen the muscles around the knee. Maintaining a healthy body weight can significantly reduce pressure on the joints.

It is also important to follow an ergonomic posture while working, take frequent breaks from prolonged sitting, and avoid sudden high-intensity workouts without proper preparation. A balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, protein, and anti-inflammatory foods can support bone and joint health. Most importantly, persistent knee pain should not be ignored, and timely consultation with a healthcare professional can prevent minor issues from becoming serious conditions.

Conclusion

The growing incidence of arthritis-like knee damage among Indians in their 30s is a result of multiple lifestyle factors, including inactivity, obesity, poor posture, injuries, and nutritional deficiencies. While the problem is becoming more common, it is largely preventable. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, following a balanced diet, and seeking timely medical attention can help preserve knee health and reduce the risk of long-term joint damage.

(By Dr. Sanjeev Kapoor, Senior Consultant, Rheumatology, ISIC Multispeciality Hospital)