Hyderabad: The cold wave gripping Hyderabad intensified through the week, leading to a steep rise in respiratory infections. As minimum temperatures dropped each night, children and elders suffered more from cough, cold, fever and asthma-related distress. Doctors said many residents also reported joint pain, chest congestion and dry, cracked skin. Because the chilly winds persisted from evening to early morning, hospitals saw a noticeable increase in patient flow. Paediatric units remained crowded, and schools recorded reduced attendance as parents kept children indoors. Consequently, outpatient numbers climbed across several government hospitals.
As the cold deepened, allergy cases grew rapidly among children and elderly patients. Many developed dry patches on the skin along with itching and irritation. Moreover, several residents experienced breathing difficulties, forcing them to seek immediate medical help. When fever clusters appeared in neighbourhoods, people rushed to clinics for early treatment. Doctors urged residents to avoid chilled foods at night, since they could worsen throat discomfort and trigger persistent cough.
Cold wave intensifies across city as hospitals see rising footfall
Doctors across GHMC limits reported more cases of skin dryness, joint aches and respiratory allergies. Therefore, they advised families to maintain warm indoor environments and avoid long exposure to cold winds. Parents were told to ensure children wore sweaters and monkey caps when stepping outside. As the cold wave extended into daytime hours, health experts warned that bone and muscle pain may worsen without proper protection. They also asked BP patients to remain alert due to the added strain caused by sudden temperature shifts.
To stay safe, doctors recommended immunity-boosting food such as warm meals, leafy vegetables, eggs, milk and pulses. They also cautioned against early-morning walks, since fog and cold air could irritate the lungs. Instead, they advised stepping out after 9 a.m. and, if possible, returning home before 5 p.m. As fog covered major roads during the early hours, travel became difficult. Commuters slowed down to avoid accidents, while cold winds made morning work more challenging. Sanitation workers, milk vendors and newspaper delivery staff reported severe discomfort as they continued their duties in harsh conditions.