Dengue Fever

Dengue Fever

 In blog

Dengue Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Prevention and Treatments

Symptoms:

  • High Fever: Sudden onset of high fever, often reaching up to 104°F (40°C).
  • Severe Headache: Intense headache, especially behind the eyes.
  • Pain in Muscles and Joints: Severe muscle and joint pain, earning Dengue the nickname “Breakbone Fever.”
  • Rash: Skin rash that often appears a few days after the fever begins.
  • Mild Bleeding: Bleeding from the nose or gums, easy bruising.
  • Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and weakness.

Causes:

Dengue Fever is caused by the Dengue virus, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. These mosquitoes thrive in tropical and subtropical climates.

Prevention:

  • Mosquito Control: Eliminate standing water, use mosquito repellent, and employ screens on windows and doors to prevent mosquito entry.
  • Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to minimize skin exposure.
  • Mosquito Nets: Use mosquito nets while sleeping if in areas with high Dengue prevalence.
  • Community Efforts: Engage in community-based mosquito control efforts, including clearing stagnant water in containers.

Treatments:

  • Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake, especially if experiencing high fever and sweating.
  • Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) to manage pain and reduce fever. Avoid NSAIDs (like aspirin or ibuprofen) due to increased bleeding risk.
  • Rest: Get plenty of rest to help the body recover.
  • Medical Care: Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms worsen or warning signs of severe Dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome) like severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, or difficulty breathing appear.
  • Hospitalization: Severe cases may require hospitalization for fluid replacement, monitoring, and supportive care.

Preventing mosquito bites remains the most effective way to prevent Dengue Fever. As Dengue can develop into a severe and potentially life-threatening illness, early detection and medical care are crucial.

Consult healthcare professionals at Shanmuga Hospital, Salem for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on individual circumstances.

Blood Cancerblog