The monsoon season has always been a double-edged sword for residents of Prayagraj and much of India. On one hand, it brings much-needed relief from the oppressive summer heat, painting the landscape in vibrant shades of green and ushering in cooler breezes. But as the rains fall and humidity rises, a host of health concerns come along for the ride—especially for those with respiratory conditions like asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), as well as for pregnant women whose immune systems are naturally a bit more vulnerable.
According to Dr. Abhishek Singh of Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital, Motilal Nehru Medical College, Prayagraj, the 2025 monsoon has been particularly active. While many people are grateful for the respite from scorching temperatures, Dr. Singh warns that the season’s characteristic high humidity, sudden temperature swings, and increased presence of environmental allergens can spell trouble for those with breathing difficulties. “Allergens like pollen, mould spores, dust particles, and moisture contribute to increased respiratory distress in vulnerable individuals,” Dr. Singh explained, as reported by Times of India.
For asthma and COPD patients, the advice is clear: extra vigilance is non-negotiable during the rainy season. “Patients should avoid stepping out during heavy rain or in highly humid conditions. If it becomes necessary, they must cover their nose and mouth with a clean mask or cloth to prevent the inhalation of airborne allergens,” Dr. Singh emphasized. The logic is straightforward—when the air is heavy with moisture and particles, every breath can bring in irritants that trigger coughing, wheezing, or worse.
But the battle doesn’t end at the doorstep. Inside the home, the fight against monsoon-related health risks continues. Dr. Singh recommends keeping indoor humidity in check by using dehumidifiers or air purifiers. These devices help prevent the growth of mould and the accumulation of dust—both notorious for exacerbating respiratory issues. He also suggests that wet clothes and beddings should be sun-dried regularly, as damp fabrics can quickly become breeding grounds for mould. Bathrooms, kitchens, and poorly ventilated rooms require special attention, with thorough cleaning to keep moisture-loving fungi at bay.
For those already managing chronic respiratory conditions, Dr. Singh stresses the importance of not interrupting prescribed inhalers and medications. “Continuous use of prescribed inhalers and keeping emergency medicines handy is important,” he said. If symptoms like a cold, cough, or breathlessness develop, immediate medical attention is crucial. “With sudden spikes in Air Quality Index (AQI) and pollen count often during the monsoon, staying indoors is the safer option for those with respiratory conditions. Practising good hygiene, such as regular handwashing and mask usage, can also help prevent infections,” Dr. Singh added.
Beyond medical interventions, lifestyle tweaks can make a big difference. Dr. Singh advises regular breathing exercises—think pranayama or gentle respiratory workouts—to help strengthen lung function. Food choices matter too. Patients are urged to avoid extremely cold or stale foods, opting instead for warm, easily digestible meals with plenty of fluids. Indoor plants and pets, while comforting, can increase allergens indoors and should be limited for those at risk.
While respiratory patients are urged to be cautious, pregnant women face their own set of monsoon challenges. The monsoon’s beauty and freshness are undeniable, but for expectant mothers, the season is also a time for heightened caution. As reported by News18, Dr. Mitul Gupta, Senior Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Cocoon Hospital, underscores that a woman’s immunity is naturally a bit lower during pregnancy, making her more susceptible to infections that thrive in the wet season.
Dr. Gupta shares five key practices that moms-to-be should follow to stay healthy during the monsoon. First and foremost: maintain cleanliness and hygiene. “Keep your surroundings clean and dry. Stagnant water during the monsoon becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes that spread infections like dengue and malaria,” Dr. Gupta noted. Regular handwashing with soap, especially before and after meals, is a simple but effective way to ward off fever and stomach-related illnesses.
Diet also plays a starring role in monsoon health. Dr. Gupta recommends a menu rich in fresh fruits, green vegetables, and protein-packed foods to help bolster immunity. “Avoid oily, spicy, and fried foods as they may upset digestion and increase infection risk,” she advised. Drinking only boiled or filtered water is a must, as is avoiding food from outside sources. Probiotics such as curd and buttermilk can support good gut health—a crucial line of defense against seasonal bugs.
The monsoon’s crowded markets and bustling public spaces, while tempting, are best avoided by pregnant women. “The risk of infection is higher in crowded spaces during the monsoon,” Dr. Gupta said. Clean clothes and a good-quality mask are recommended whenever venturing out becomes necessary. And when it comes to water, the advice is strict: steer clear of dirty and stagnant pools, open drains, and even rainwater. Getting drenched may seem harmless, but damp clothes can quickly lead to skin and fungal infections.
Medical vigilance is non-negotiable. “If you notice any unusual symptoms such as fever, cough, body aches, or stomach issues, consult your doctor immediately,” Dr. Gupta urged. Regular antenatal check-ups are essential to catch and treat any infections early. Pregnant women should only take medicines as prescribed and ensure they get enough rest—a healthy mom means a healthier baby.
It’s not just about avoiding illness, but about creating an environment where health can flourish despite the rain. Both Dr. Singh and Dr. Gupta agree that prevention is the best medicine during the monsoon. For respiratory patients, that means managing allergens and humidity, and for pregnant women, it means a relentless focus on hygiene, nutrition, and timely medical care.
Of course, the monsoon is not all doom and gloom. With the right precautions, most people—including those with special health needs—can enjoy the season’s unique joys. The sound of rain on rooftops, the sight of lush greenery, and the promise of cooler days are all part of the monsoon’s charm. But as the experts remind us, a little extra care goes a long way.
So whether you’re managing asthma, expecting a new arrival, or simply hoping to make it through the season sniffle-free, the message is clear: Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and let the rains bring only good things this year.
