Kathmandu, July 10

Ear, nose and throat problems are increasing among Kathmanduites with every change of season and viral infections too are on the rise.

According to Dhundi Raj Paudel, chief consultant ENT and surgeon at Bir Hospital, environmental pollution, consumption of contaminated food and drinking water are responsible for increasing ENT related cases.

Viral infections such as pharyngitis (throat infection), pneumonia, sinusitis, common cold, diarrhoea and typhoid are the results of consuming contaminated food and water in the Valley. “Those people who have low immunity power are more vulnerable to viral infection,” he said.

He informed that more than 50 per cent people have infection in their ears, while 20 to 30 per cent have problems related to throat and nose.

“Unhygienic junk food and water is consumed in the Valley. More than 30 per cent people of the Valley coming for treatment to Bir Hospital are from poorer background, the others find treatment in private hospitals.”

He said, “People in the valley live in pathetic condition. They are deprived of the right to pure drinking water and clean environment. The government should address people’s health concerns and ensure clean environment and pure water to drink to live a healthy life.” The solution to acute and chronic ENT infections is to get rid of all kinds of pollution, Paudel said.