Dry, hot weather causing more skin ailments: docs

The extreme temperatures are not only giving Mumbaikars colds and sore throats, but also an array of skin ailments. A greater number of patients are complaining of edema, severe rashes and redness of skin, said doctors.

The extreme temperatures are not only giving Mumbaikars colds and sore throats, but also an array of skin ailments. A greater number of patients are complaining of edema, severe rashes and redness of skin, said doctors.

HT Image

"While the heat has set in, it is also very dry. People are experiencing burning sensations on their skin and pigmentation," said Dr Hema Jerajani, dermatology professor at MGM hospital, Navi Mumbai.

A number of women in particular were experiencing a rash called polymorphic light eruption (PLE). "People complaining of PLE have tiny eruptions all over the exposed skin, which becomes itchy and red because of the heat," said Dr Swati Srivastava, a consultant dermatologist in Andheri.

Melasma, where dark patches occur on exposed skin, was also fairly common among Dr Srivastava's patients. "The condition is aggravated in summer. It can only be controlled, never cured," she said.

Dr Jerajani said certain people taking anti-acne medications were suddenly becoming intolerant to their medicines. "I had a patient for whom the medicines were working earlier and now he has redness on his face," said Dr Jerajani.