What are the symptoms of dengue and what precautions are to be taken in case if we suffer from dengue.
Ask Free Question
Hi, Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, is a mosquito-borne tropical disease caused by the dengue virus. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash that is similar to measles. In a small proportion of cases, the disease develops into the life-threatening dengue hemorrhagic fever, resulting in bleeding, low levels of blood platelets and blood plasma leakage, or into dengue shock syndrome, where dangerously low blood pressure occurs. Dengue is transmitted by several species of mosquito within the genus Aedes, principally A. Aegypti. The virus has five different types; infection with one type usually gives lifelong immunity to that type, but only short-term immunity to the others. Subsequent infection with a different type increases the risk of severe complications. As there is no commercially available vaccine, prevention is sought by reducing the habitat and the number of mosquitoes and limiting exposure to bites. The incubation period (time between exposure and onset of symptoms) ranges from 3 to 14 days, but most often it is 4 to 7 days. The characteristic symptoms of dengue are sudden-onset fever, headache (typically located behind the eyes), muscle and joint pains, and a rash. The alternative name for dengue, "breakbone fever" comes from the associated muscle and joint pains. Do?s and Don?t?s for Patients: If you or any other member is suffering from suspected dengue fever, it is important to carefully watch yourself or member for the next few days, since this disease can rapidly become very serious and lead to a medical emergency. The complications associated with Dengue Fever/Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever usually appear between the third and fifth day of illness. You should therefore watch the patient for two days even after fever disappears. Personal Measures: Use of mosquito repellent creams, liquids, coils, mats etc. Wearing of full sleeve shirts and full pants with socks during the transmission season. Use of bed nets for sleeping during day time to prevent mosquito bite What to Do: Give large amounts of fluids (water, soup, milk, juice) along with the normal diet. The patient should take complete rest. Immediately consult the doctor or report at the Health Centre if any of the following manifestations appear: ? Red spots or points on the skin ? bleeding from the nose or gums ? frequent vomiting ? vomiting with blood ? black stools ? sleepiness ? constant crying; ? abdominal pain ? excessive thirst (dry mouth) ? pale, cold or clammy skin ? difficulty in breathing What Not to Do: Do not wait in case the above symptoms appear. Immediately consult a doctor. It is crucial to quickly get treatment in case of these complications.
Take help from the best doctors
Ask a free question
Get FREE multiple opinions from Doctors