Beat the Heat, Not Your Gut: Common Summer Gastro Problems and How to Avoid Them

Summer brings longer days, vacations, and refreshing drinks, but it also brings a host of digestive problems. The extreme heat, dehydration, and changes in diet during the summer months can disrupt gut health, leading to discomfort and illness. In this blog, we’ll discuss common summer gastrointestinal (GI) issues, how to prevent them and when to visit the best gastro hospital in Ranchi.

Common Summer Gastro Problems

Experts at Samford Hospital — one of the best super speciality hospitals in Ranchi — warn against some common gut problems encountered in summers:

1. Dehydration and Constipation

Summer heat increases the body’s water loss through sweat, making dehydration a common issue. Dehydration slows down digestion and leads to constipation, bloating, and discomfort.

How to Avoid It:

● Drink plenty of water (at least 8–10 glasses daily).

● Include water-rich foods like cucumber, watermelon, and oranges in your diet.

● Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.

2. Food Poisoning

The high temperatures of summer accelerate bacterial growth, increasing the risk of foodborne illnesses. Contaminated street food, undercooked meats, and improperly stored leftovers can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.

How to Avoid It:

● Eat freshly prepared, home-cooked meals whenever possible.

● Avoid raw or undercooked meat and seafood.

● Keep perishable foods refrigerated and avoid eating stale food.

3. Heat-Induced Acid Reflux

Spicy and oily foods, commonly consumed in summer outings, combined with dehydration, can trigger acid reflux or heartburn.

How to Avoid It:

● Eat smaller, frequent meals instead of large, heavy meals.

● Reduce spicy, fried, and acidic foods in your diet.

● Stay hydrated to prevent excessive stomach acid build-up.

4. Traveler’s Diarrhea

Summer vacations often mean eating at unfamiliar places, where hygiene standards may not be the same as at home. This can lead to bacterial infections, causing diarrhea and stomach upset, say the doctors at Samford Hospital — one of the best hospitals in Ranchi.

How to Avoid It:

● Drink only bottled or filtered water when traveling.

● Avoid ice cubes and uncooked food from street vendors.

● Wash hands thoroughly before eating.

5. Bloating and Indigestion

Changes in eating patterns, carbonated drinks, and excessive cold foods can lead to bloating and slow digestion during summer.

How to Avoid It:

● Limit carbonated drinks and excessive cold beverages.

● Eat fiber-rich foods to support digestion.

● Engage in light physical activity, such as walking, after meals.

What Causes These Common Summer Gastro Problems?

As explained by our gastro specialist at Samford hospital, one of the best gastro hospital in Ranchi, there are several factors which contribute to digestive issues during summer:

● High Temperatures: Heat increases bacterial growth in food and can lead to food poisoning.

● Dehydration: Loss of fluids through sweat slows digestion and causes constipation.

● Dietary Changes: Eating more fast food, street food, and cold beverages can disrupt gut health.

● Unhygienic Food Handling: Contaminated water and food can introduce harmful bacteria, causing diarrhea and infections.

● Stress & Travel: Changes in routine, travel stress, and irregular meal timings can affect digestion.

When to See a Doctor?

Most summer digestive issues resolve with proper hydration and diet adjustments. However, seek medical attention from experts consulting at the best hospital in Ranchi if you experience:

● Severe dehydration (dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urination)

● Persistent diarrhea lasting more than two days

● High fever (above 101°F) along with digestive symptoms

● Severe stomach pain or cramps

● Blood in stool or vomit

Best Summer Foods for Gut Health

Including gut-friendly foods can help maintain digestion and prevent gastrointestinal problems.

● Yogurt & Buttermilk: Rich in probiotics that aid digestion and prevent bloating.

● Coconut Water: Helps in hydration and balancing electrolytes.

● Fruits & Vegetables: Fiber-rich options like papaya, banana, cucumber, and leafy greens support gut health.

● Herbal Teas: Mint and ginger tea can soothe digestive issues.

Final Thoughts

Summer heat can take a toll on digestive health, but with mindful eating and proper hydration, you can keep your gut happy. Prioritize fresh, light meals, stay hydrated, and avoid unhygienic foods to enjoy the season without stomach troubles. If symptoms persist, consult our gastro specialists at Samford hospital, one of the best hospital in Ranchi, to rule out infections or underlying digestive issues.

Stay cool, eat right, and enjoy a gut-friendly summer!

Signs You Might Need a Knee Replacement: When Surgery Becomes Essential

Knee pain can significantly impact your daily life, making simple activities like walking, climbing stairs, or even standing for long periods difficult. While many knee problems can be managed with lifestyle changes, physical therapy, or medication, there comes a time when knee replacement surgery becomes the best option for long-term relief. But how do you know when it’s time to consider surgery? Here are the key signs from our joint replacement specialists at Samford Hospital, one of the best super-speciality hospitals in Ranchi, that indicate you might need a knee replacement.

Persistent and Severe Pain

If you experience knee pain that doesn’t go away even after rest, medication, or physical therapy, it may be a sign that your knee joint has deteriorated significantly. Chronic pain, especially if it persists at night and disrupts sleep, is a major red flag that conservative treatments are no longer effective.

Limited Range of Motion

A healthy knee should bend and straighten with ease. According to our experts at Samford Hospital, one of the best orthopaedic hospitals in Ranchi, if your knee feels stiff, swollen, or you have trouble bending it fully, it could be a sign of advanced arthritis or joint damage. A loss of flexibility can make routine activities — like sitting, standing, or getting in and out of a car — challenging.

Difficulty Performing Daily Activities

When knee pain and stiffness interfere with essential daily tasks such as walking, dressing, cooking, or even getting up from a chair, it might be time to consider surgery. If you find yourself avoiding activities you once enjoyed due to knee discomfort, a knee replacement could help restore mobility and independence.

Increased Dependence on Pain Medication

Frequent use of over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage knee pain can indicate worsening joint issues. Long-term use of these medications can lead to side effects such as stomach ulcers, kidney problems, and increased cardiovascular risks. If you find yourself relying on medication to get through the day, it might be time to explore surgical options.

Knee Deformity

A visible change in the shape or alignment of your knee, such as bowing inward or outward, can indicate severe joint degeneration. This deformity is often associated with osteoarthritis and can worsen over time, leading to an uneven gait and additional stress on surrounding joints, including the hips and lower back.

Knee Instability and Weakness

If your knee frequently gives out, locks, or feels unstable when walking or standing, it could mean that the cartilage and supporting structures have deteriorated. This instability increases the risk of falls and further joint damage, making surgical intervention necessary.

Failed Conservative Treatments

Our joint specialist at Samford hospital, one of the best hospitals in Ranchi, recommends trying conservative treatments before considering knee replacement surgery. These include:

● Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility

● Cortisone injections to reduce inflammation and pain

● Weight loss to reduce stress on the knee

● Braces or assistive devices to provide support

If you’ve tried these treatments without success, it’s a strong indicator that your knee damage is too advanced for non-surgical management.

X-ray or MRI Confirms Severe Joint Damage

Medical imaging tests can provide a clear picture of the condition of your knee joint. If X-rays show significant cartilage loss, bone-on-bone contact, or severe osteoarthritis, a knee replacement might be the best solution. Your doctor will assess these images alongside your symptoms to determine if surgery is necessary.

Pain That Affects Mental Health

Chronic pain doesn’t just affect your physical health — it can take a toll on your mental well-being. Constant discomfort and limited mobility can lead to frustration, anxiety, and even depression. If your knee pain is diminishing your quality of life and making it difficult to stay active or engage in social activities, it’s worth discussing surgical options with your doctor.

You Are the Right Candidate for Surgery

Not everyone with knee pain is a suitable candidate for knee replacement. However, if you are in generally good health, have exhausted non-surgical treatments, and your pain is severely affecting your lifestyle, you might benefit from the procedure. Knee replacement surgery has a high success rate, with most patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved mobility.

Final Thoughts

Knee pain doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. If you are experiencing persistent pain, mobility issues, or a decline in your quality of life despite trying non-surgical treatments, it is time to consult an orthopaedic doctor at Samford Hospital, one of the best orthopaedic hospitals in Ranchi. Our specialists can guide towards the right steps, so that you can regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to enjoying an active, fulfilling life.