Skin ailments soar as monsoon hits city

As the monsoon rains sweep through Punjab, hospitals in Ludhiana are witnessing a sharp rise in patients reporting skin-related ailments.

Dermatology departments at Civil Hospital, Dayanand Medical College and Hospital (DMCH), and Christian Medical College and Hospital (CMCH) have recorded a 30–40 per cent increase in OPD footfall, with fungal and bacterial infections leading the surge.

Doctors attribute the increase to high humidity, damp clothing and poor ventilation, which create ideal conditions for microbial growth. Common complaints include ringworm, athlete’s foot, folliculitis, heat rash and impetigo, particularly among individuals wearing synthetic fabrics or tight footwear.

“Patients are coming in with red, itchy patches, peeling skin and inflamed hair follicles,” said Dr Rohit Rampal, a senior dermatologist at Civil Hospital. “We’re seeing a significant rise in fungal infections, especially in skin folds and feet.”

The OPD at Civil Hospital is overwhelmed, with specialists attending to dozens of cases daily.

DMCH and CMCH are also facing similar pressure, prompting calls for increased public awareness and preventive care.

City resident Gurbir Kaur, who lives near the Ayali Khurd area, said that she faces recurring skin issues every monsoon. “It happens every year. I stepped out yesterday to run errands and my feet got wet from stagnant water near the school. Today, there’s this constant itchiness. I think I’ll need to see a doctor,” she shared, highlighting the public health risks that arise when infrastructure gaps persist through the rainy season.

Dr Simrat Grewal, a private dermatologist based in Ludhiana, confirmed a noticeable rise in skin-related complaints since the onset of the rainy season. “Our OPD is swelling by the day—there’s been almost a twofold increase in patients coming in with fungal infections, rashes and allergic reactions due to exposure to contaminated or stagnant water,” she said. Dr Grewal stressed the importance of maintaining hygiene and seeking timely treatment to prevent complications, especially among children and elderly residents.

Doctors also caution against self-medication, especially with steroid creams, which can worsen fungal infections. “Timely consultation and proper hygiene are key to managing these seasonal ailments,” they emphasised.

With rainfall expected to intensify in the coming weeks, health officials urge residents to stay vigilant and prioritise skin care to avoid complications.

Ludhiana