Dengue – The Mosquito Menace

• Severe Headache: Dengue fever is frequently accompanied by severe headaches, which can be intense and persistent. The headache is typically located behind the eyes or in the frontal area of the head.

• Joint and Muscle Pain: Dengue commonly causes joint and muscle pain, also referred to as myalgia and arthralgia, respectively. The pain is often described as a deep, aching sensation and can affect multiple joints and muscles throughout the body. It may be particularly prominent in the lower back, knees, and limbs.

• Rash: Many individuals with dengue develop a characteristic rash. The rash typically appears 2 to 5 days after the onset of fever and often spreads from the torso to the limbs, resembling a measles-like pattern. The rash may disappear and reappear during the course of the illness.

• Fatigue and Weakness: Fatigue and weakness are common symptoms of dengue. Patients often experience a general feeling of tiredness and lack of energy, which can persist even after the fever subsides.

• Mild Bleeding: Some individuals with dengue may experience mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or easy bruising. This occurs due to the decrease in platelet count, a condition known as thrombocytopenia, which is common in dengue infections. Severe bleeding is rare but can occur in severe cases.

It is important to note that in severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). Warning signs of severe dengue include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, rapid breathing, and a decrease in urine output. Immediate medical attention is necessary if any of these signs or symptoms are present.

If you suspect you or someone else may have dengue, it is crucial to seek medical care for proper diagnosis and management. Early detection and appropriate treatment can help prevent complications and promote a speedy recovery.

Treatment of Dengue:
• Supportive Care: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Most cases of dengue can be managed with supportive care, which focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications. This includes bed rest, ensuring adequate hydration, and providing over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) to reduce fever and alleviate pain.

• Fluid Replacement: Maintaining fluid balance is crucial in dengue management. Oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids may be administered to prevent dehydration and restore electrolyte imbalances. Close monitoring of fluid intake and output is essential, especially in severe cases where fluid loss can be significant.

• Pain Management: Pain and discomfort associated with dengue can be relieved with painkillers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol). It is important to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

• Hospitalization for Severe Cases: Severe dengue cases, such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), require hospitalization for close monitoring and specialized medical care. Intravenous fluid replacement, blood transfusions, and other interventions may be necessary to manage complications and stabilize the patient’s condition.