Bengaluru:The city’s once-predictable weather has turned capricious. Mornings now arrive with a sharp chill — temperatures dipping to 13–14°C — only for afternoons to climb swiftly to a sweltering 31°C. The stark swing within a matter of hours is driving an uptick in clinic visits across neighbourhoods.Doctors report a noticeable surge in respiratory illnesses, including bronchitis, viral flu, persistent cough, sore throat and fever, as residents struggle to adapt to the daily temperature fluctuations. For patients living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, the shifting conditions have triggered flare-ups, worsening breathlessness and other symptoms. There’s a rise in skin infections, fatigue and occasional fainting spells.
“Bengaluru is experiencing noticeable temperature variations, with mornings significantly cooler than afternoons — a pattern often linked with weather-related illnesses. Sudden drops in early morning temperatures and relatively warm days favour the spread of seasonal viruses and respiratory illnesses, especially during seasonal transitions. We are seeing more cases of viral flu, persistent cough, sore throat, and fever, which are commonly viral in origin,” said Dr Darshana Reddy, senior consultant – internal medicine and medical superintendent, Altius Hospital.Doctors say the rise in OPD visits is unusual for this time of year. “Compared to last year, we’re seeing a 50% rise in such cases. On an average day, we now consult 10–15 patients, reflecting a rise in both outpatient visits and inpatient admissions. This surge is largely driven by sharp weather fluctuations, worsening air pollution, and unhealthy dietary habits,” said Dr Ajay HR, consultant in internal medicine, Prakriya Hospitals.Experts said frequent temperature shifts disrupt the body’s thermoregulation and weaken immunity. Low humidity and dry air further dry out the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, reducing protection against infections. “The body normally maintains a stable internal temperature through thermoregulation. However, continuous variation forces it to work harder to release and retain heat, leading to fatigue, inadequate sleep, and physiological stress. This weakens immunity and increases susceptibility to viral infections,” said Dr Mahesh R Nadagouda, consultant in internal medicine, Sammprada Hospital.Doctors note that children’s immunity is still developing, while older adults — particularly those with diabetes, asthma or COPD — are more sensitive to temperature swings. “Working adults who commute daily are also vulnerable due to exposure to harsh weather and pollution,” Dr Mahesh added. Apart from infections, fluctuating temperatures are aggravating lung conditions. “People with asthma, bronchitis, or wheezing are seeing worsening symptoms, sometimes lasting 4 to 6 weeks,” said Dr Leeni Mehta, senior consultant physician at Apollo Medical Centre, Marathahalli.She added that cold weather causes blood vessels to constrict, raising blood pressure, while heat leads to dilation, sudden drops and dizziness. Along with staying hydrated, doctors advise wearing removable layers to cope with changing temperatures. “I would advise layering for those commuting in the early hours or late hours of the day and removing layers as the temperature changes,” Dr Leeni said.What are the symptoms *Persistent cold, cough*Fever*Fatigue, weakness*Dizziness or fainting spells*Worsening breathlessness/wheezing Steps to stay fit*Drink plenty of fluids, avoid exposure to mid-day heat*Wear layers in cooler hours, light and breathable clothes in the afternoon*Avoid sudden movement from air-conditioned indoor areas to hotter outdoors*Seasonal flu vaccination and good hygiene*Eat at least 1 fruit a daySource: Physicians
