Tummy troubles: HMC catches over 100,000 gastro cases in three months

DMS says stomach-related patients outnumbered those afflicted by militancy, accidents.


Asad Zia July 02, 2014

PESHAWAR: Over the last three months, more cases of gastro (gastroenteritis) have been reported at Hayatabad Medical Complex (HMC) than militancy or accidents.

According to data shared by the hospital, as many as 105,492 patients from across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa came to HMC during April, May and June, complaining of gastro-related problems, including diarrhoea. In the same period, 12 victims of bomb blasts, 65 firearm injuries and 416 road accidents were brought in.

HMC Deputy Medical Superintendent (DMS) Dr Ikramudin Khan told The Express Tribune there has a marked increase in the number of patients suffering from gastro-related issues.



“The increase in gastro patients has been reported from across K-P, not one specific area. More cases are likely to surface during Ramazan,” said Dr Khan.

According to Dr Khan, 30,165 gastro patients were brought to the HMC in April, 37,617 were brought in May and 37,710 in June.

Prevention better than cure

Khan explained gastroenteritis is a water or food-borne viral or bacterial infection caused by ingesting contaminated food or beverages.

“Symptoms include vomiting, fever and diarrhoea which can ultimately lead to dehydration and low blood pressure,” said Khan.

Gastro can largely be prevented by drinking boiled or filtered water.

“People should avoid drinking water from unhygienic sources or directly from the tap, while fruits being sold in the markets should not be eaten without being thoroughly washed,” added Dr Khan.

Other precautionary measures include washing hands before eating anything.


Published in The Express Tribune, July 3rd, 2014.

COMMENTS

Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ