Mamitha Baiju had 102°F fever on Vishwanath & Sons song shoot: ‘Go to the hospital for nebuliser’

Mamitha Baiju, a 25-year-old actress, recently shared her health struggles while filming a song for Vishwanath & Sons in Ooty, Tamil Nadu. She experienced a high fever of 102°F, along with asthma and allergies. During the shoot, the harsh weather conditions and Suriya also reported feeling unwell.

Dr. Manas Mengar, a senior consultant pulmonologist, explained that various factors could have contributed to her condition. These include dust, pollen, smoke, strong fragrances, makeup products, artificial fog, generator fumes, temperature changes, and poor air quality. Long hours in the heat, strenuous dancing, and repeated takes could also have further strained her respiratory system.

For those with asthma or allergies, combining these factors could trigger coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. Dr. Mengar emphasized that intense physical activity, especially if it involves prolonged or rapid breathing, can lead to exercise-induced bronchoconstriction. In cold, dry, dusty, or polluted environments, this risk is even higher.

Allergies can worsen asthma symptoms by increasing the sensitivity of the airways. Exposure to triggers like pollen, dust mites, mold, or airborne chemicals can cause inflammation and swelling within the airways, making breathing symptoms more pronounced for those with both allergies and asthma.

However, not every bout of shortness of breath during a shoot is an allergy or asthma attack. Persistent or severe symptoms should be medically evaluated.

To prevent such episodes, Dr. Mengar advised minimizing individual triggers when possible, adhering to prescribed treatment plans, keeping reliever medication readily accessible, and taking necessary precautions. These include proper warm-up before strenuous activity, scheduled breaks, and protective measures like appropriate ventilation if dust, smoke, fog effects, or significant pollution are present.

Dr. Mengar warned that rapidly worsening shortness of breath, difficulty speaking due to breathlessness, severe wheezing, chest tightness that doesn't subside, bluish lips, or confusion are signs that require immediate medical attention. While pushing through these symptoms might be necessary for completing a shoot, early recognition and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent a manageable episode from turning into a medical emergency.