KARACHI – With the onset of winter, major government hospitals in Karachi are reporting a concerning spike in patients brought in dead (dead-on-arrival), with the vast majority being elderly citizens.
Medical experts identify heart attacks and strokes as the primary causes behind these fatalities. The situation is further aggravated by rising air pollution, cold weather, and a surge in seasonal viral infections.
Emergency Rooms Under Pressure
Medical sources indicate an unusual influx of patients suffering from respiratory issues, chest infections, and severe influenza in emergency departments. Patients with chronic respiratory diseases are arriving in critical condition, often requiring immediate hospitalization to save their lives.
Dr. Imran Sarwar, Emergency Incharge at Civil Hospital Karachi, noted that viral infection cases have seen a marked increase compared to the previous year.
“We are seeing a high volume of cases involving respiratory tract infections, pneumonia, and lung complications. Many patients with pre-existing conditions are arriving in highly unstable states,” Dr. Sarwar stated.
The Danger of ‘Lingering’ Symptoms
A specific trend noted by doctors this year is the persistence of symptoms. Dr. Sarwar highlighted that many patients recover from the initial flu, but a persistent cough lasts for one to two months. This can be a sign of a more serious underlying respiratory complication that requires professional medical attention.
Antibiotic Resistance and Misuse
A major concern raised by the medical community is the mismanagement of medication. Patient histories often reveal:
- Irregular use of asthma medication.
- Incomplete courses of antibiotics.
Dr. Sarwar warned that the unnecessary or incomplete use of antibiotics leads to Antibiotic Resistance, making future treatments significantly more difficult and less effective.
Why Winter is High-Risk for the Elderly
The physiological impact of cold weather plays a direct role in the rising death toll:
- Vascular Constriction: Cold weather causes blood vessels to narrow, restricting blood flow to the heart and brain.
- Sudden Deaths: Many families report that elderly relatives appeared healthy at night but passed away suddenly by morning. These sudden deaths are typically linked to the narrowing of coronary arteries, which becomes life-threatening in low temperatures.
Precautionary Measures & Recommendations
To mitigate risks and prevent the spread of infections, health experts advise the following:
- Self-Isolation: If you have a cough or flu, keep your distance from others, especially the elderly.
- Warm Clothing: Ensure adequate layers of clothing to maintain core body temperature.
- Hydration: Incorporate herbal teas (Qahwa) or green tea into your daily routine.
- Social Distancing: Maintain distance in offices and public spaces to curb the spread of viral infections.
- Medication Adherence: Never leave an antibiotic course unfinished and follow your doctor’s prescribed schedule for chronic conditions.
