How to Treat Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral infection, poses significant health risks, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. The virus is transmitted through bites of infected Aedes species mosquito vectors. Global warming trends support dengue vector mosquitoes. Proper treatment and awareness are crucial for managing this illness. This article and video, available only in Urdu/Hindi, provide comprehensive guidelines on treating dengue fever, recognizing its symptoms, understanding its impact on the human body, and implementing preventive measures.

How to Treat Dengue Fever

According to the World Health Organization, the following steps are essential for treating dengue fever:

1. Rest: Adequate rest helps the body combat the virus and recover efficiently.
2. Hydration: Drinking fluids is vital to prevent dehydration, a common complication of dengue fever.
3. Pain Management: Use acetaminophen (paracetamol) to alleviate pain and reduce fever. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, as they can exacerbate bleeding.
4. Monitoring Symptoms: Watch for severe symptoms and contact a healthcare provider immediately if they occur.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever manifests through various symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• High fever (40°C/104°F)
• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Muscle and joint pains
• Nausea and vomiting
• Swollen glands
• Rash

In severe case the dengue fever symtoms may worsen and includ the following:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Rapid breathing
• Bleeding gums or nose
• Fatigue and restlessness
• Blood in vomit or stool
• Excessive thirst
• Pale and cold skin
• General weakness

Changes in the Human Body Due to Dengue Fever

Dengue fever differs from other febrile illnesses as it could potentially lead to internal bleeding, which can be dangerous. Avoiding medications that reduce platelets is crucial, as low platelet counts are a common issue in dengue patients. Only paracetamol should be used for managing pain and fever, and medications like aspirin and ibuprofen should be strictly avoided.

Recovery from Dengue Fever

There is no antiviral treatment for dengue fever. The illness often resolves on its own, and supportive care is essential for recovery. Pain-relief medications can help manage symptoms, but there should be a heightened awareness regarding platelet counts. Regular medical testing, including platelet and hematocrit tests, is necessary to monitor the patient’s condition. Maintaining constant fluid levels is also crucial.

In cases of severe dengue, hospitalization may be required. Key points in managing severe dengue include:

• Dengue Shock Syndrome: This severe condition needs immediate medical attention to control bleeding and manage fluid levels.
• Control Fever: Ensuring the fever is controlled to prevent further complications.
• Platelet Management: Monitoring and, if necessary, increasing platelet levels to prevent excessive bleeding.

Special Considerations

For pregnant women, Doctors and Caregivers must adopt the safest possible treatment approach must be taken to protect both the mother and the unborn child.

Getting Healthy from Dengue Fever

If you or your loved ones suffer from dengue, it is important to take following measures:

• Consuming foods with high water content, such as soups and juices.
• Regular medical testing for early detection.
• Immediate medical attention if symptoms worsen.
• Ensuring adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration.

By following above guidelines, individuals can manage dengue fever effectively and reduce the risk of severe complications. Public health awareness and early intervention are crucial to controlling the impact of dengue fever in affected regions.