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Dengue symptoms

Dengue symptoms

Dengue Fever - Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness that affects millions of people worldwide. With its distinctive symptoms and potential for severe complications, understanding dengue is crucial for staying safe, especially in regions where the disease is prevalent. In this detailed guide, we take a close look at dengue fever. We'll cover its signs, how it can be treated, ways to prevent it, and more. What is Dengue Fever? Dengue fever, often referred to as "breakbone fever," is a viral illness transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Dengue can range from mild to severe, with severe cases potentially leading to dengue haemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, which can be life-threatening. Whom Does Dengue Fever Affect? Dengue fever can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, but it is more common in regions where Aedes mosquitoes thrive, such as parts of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the Americas. Travellers to these areas are also at risk if they are not adequately protected against mosquito bites. How Common is Dengue Fever? Dengue fever is a significant global health concern. It is estimated that hundreds of millions of cases occur each year, with a substantial number resulting in hospitalization and fatalities. The incidence of dengue varies by region and can be influenced by factors like climate and mosquito populations. Can You Be Immune to Dengue Fever? Immunity to dengue fever is complex. While infection with one dengue virus serotype can provide immunity against that specific serotype, it can increase the risk of severe disease if a person is subsequently infected with a different serotype. This phenomenon, known as antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), makes developing a vaccine challenging. What are the Symptoms of Dengue Fever? The dengue fever symptoms typically manifest after an incubation period of 4 to 10 days following the mosquito bite. These symptoms can vary in intensity from person to person, but common signs and symptoms include: Sudden High Fever: Dengue often begins with a sudden and high fever, which can reach up to 104°F (40°C). This fever is one of the hallmark signs of dengue. Severe Headaches: Dengue fever is accompanied by intense headaches, which can be debilitating. The dengue fever temperature pattern typically includes fever which is located behind the eyes and can cause significant discomfort. Pain Behind the Eyes: Along with headaches, individuals with dengue may experience pain and discomfort behind their eyes. This symptom can contribute to the overall discomfort of the illness. Severe Joint and Muscle Pain: Dengue is often referred to as "breakbone fever" because of the severe joint and muscle pain it causes. This pain can be quite intense and may affect multiple joints and muscles. Fatigue: Dengue fever can lead to extreme fatigue and weakness, making it difficult for individuals to carry out their daily activities. Nausea: Dengue fever causes nausea as well, and it is often accompanied by a lack of appetite. Vomiting: In addition to nausea, vomiting can occur in individuals with dengue. This can lead to dehydration, which is a concern in dengue cases. Skin Rash: Some people with dengue may develop a skin rash. Dengue symptoms rash can vary in appearance and is usually accompanied by other symptoms. Mild Bleeding from the Nose or Gums: Dengue can cause mild bleeding from the nose or gums. While this bleeding is generally not severe, it is one of the symptoms to watch for. Mild Bruising: Bruising can occur in dengue cases, and it is often mild. It can be a result of the impact of the virus on blood vessels. Severe Dengue (Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever) Severe dengue is a life-threatening form of the disease that can lead to shock, internal bleeding, and organ failure. Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, fatigue, and restlessness. what is the first sign of dengue fever?    The first sign of Dengue fever is typically a sudden high fever, which can reach up to 105°F (40°C). This fever is often accompanied by other flu-like symptoms such as severe headache, joint and muscle pain, vomiting, and a skin rash. It's essential to monitor these symptoms closely, as early detection and medical care can be crucial in managing Dengue fever effectively.    What Causes Dengue Fever? Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which belongs to the Flavivirus family. This virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti. Once infected, a person can transmit the virus to others through mosquito bites during the initial fever phase. How Does Dengue Fever Spread? Dengue fever spreads through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon. Dengue can be transmitted from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth or through breastfeeding. is dengue contagious? Dengue fever itself is not directly contagious from person to person. It requires the intermediary of Aedes mosquitoes for transmission. However, infected individuals can serve as a source of the virus for mosquitoes if they are bitten during the early phase of their illness when the virus is present in their blood. How Does Dengue Fever Spread? Dengue fever spreads through the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, making it crucial to protect against mosquito bites during these times. Additionally, dengue can be transmitted from an infected mother to her newborn during childbirth or through breastfeeding. How is Dengue Fever Diagnosed? Dengue fever is diagnosed through blood tests that detect the virus or antibodies. One common test detects dengue virus-specific antibodies, including IgG and IgM. These tests are vital for confirming the virus's presence, especially in the later stages when it becomes more detectable. Dengue Symptoms For Kids    Dengue symptoms in children may include high fever, severe headache, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, and in severe cases, bleeding from the nose or gums    How is Dengue Fever Treated? Dengue fever has no specific antiviral treatment. Management focuses on supportive care, which includes: Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is crucial to prevent dehydration. Pain and Fever Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help manage symptoms. Monitoring: Close monitoring for complications, especially severe dengue, is essential. Seek immediate medical attention if warning signs appear. How Do I Manage Dengue Fever Symptoms? To manage dengue fever symptoms, get plenty of rest, drink fluids to stay hydrated, and take pain relievers like acetaminophen for pain and fever. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. How Can I Reduce My Risk of Dengue Fever? Reducing the risk of dengue involves preventing mosquito bites. Use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use mosquito nets or screens in sleeping areas. Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by removing standing water where mosquitoes lay eggs. What Can I Expect If I Have Dengue Fever? Dengue symptoms typically include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and a rash. Seek medical care if symptoms worsen. How Long Does Dengue Fever Last? Dengue fever usually lasts for about a week, but recovery can take several weeks, and fatigue may persist. Can You Survive Dengue Fever? Most cases of dengue fever are mild and can be managed with supportive care. However, severe dengue can be fatal without prompt medical treatment. Complications of Dengue Fever in Pregnancy Pregnant women with dengue fever are at risk of severe complications, including preterm birth, low birth weight, and other adverse outcomes. Immediate medical attention is crucial for pregnant individuals with dengue. Can You Get Dengue Fever Multiple Times? Yes, it is possible to get dengue fever multiple times. Dengue is caused by four different serotypes of the dengue virus (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). When you recover from one serotype, you develop immunity to that specific serotype. However, subsequent infections with different serotypes can occur, and they are known to be more severe than the initial infection. This is because the immune response to the second infection can sometimes trigger a more intense reaction, leading to severe dengue, also called dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. How Do I Take Care of Myself If I’ve Had Dengue? Rest, stay hydrated, and follow medical advice for a full recovery. When Should I See My Healthcare Provider? You should seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms of dengue, such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, or difficulty breathing. What Questions Should I Ask My Doctor? When discussing your dengue fever diagnosis and treatment with your doctor, consider asking about available treatment options. Ask about the expected recovery time, and precautions you can take to prevent future dengue infections. Is Dengue Deadlier Than Malaria? Dengue and malaria are both serious mosquito-borne diseases, but their deadliness can vary by region. Malaria has a higher global mortality rate, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually, primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. Dengue can also be fatal, but the mortality rate is generally lower on a global scale. However, dengue's severity can vary significantly by region, and it can cause severe complications, especially in areas with limited access to healthcare. Conclusion Dengue fever is a widespread and potentially dangerous illness transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Understanding its symptoms, prevention methods, and when to seek medical care is crucial for managing the disease. Protecting against mosquito bites is the primary preventive measure, and early detection of severe symptoms is essential for timely medical intervention. Stay informed and take steps to reduce the risk of dengue fever, especially in regions where it is prevalent. For accurate blood testing and health check-up services, you can rely on Metropolis Labs a trusted chain of diagnostic labs across India. Their team of qualified blood collection technicians makes at-home visits for blood samples, which are processed at advanced diagnostic labs. The reports are conveniently shared online via email and the Metropolis TruHealth app. For accurate and convenient blood testing and health check-ups, visit Metropolis India today! Your health matters.

Dengue symptoms

Dengue Fever: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors and More

As summer approaches, the threat of dengue fever looms once again. This mosquito-borne illness is a serious concern in many parts of the world, causing flu-like symptoms and even death in severe cases.  But fear not, by understanding its causes, recognizing its symptoms, seeking proper treatment, and taking preventative measures, we can all do our part to protect ourselves and our communities from this deadly disease.  Dengue is an acute viral infection that continues to plague many countries across the world, including India. Almost over 40% of the world population is living in areas where there is a high risk of dengue. It is still considered one of the leading causes of illness in many countries. While mild dengue can cause flu-like symptoms, severe dengue can present with potentially fatal complications. Dengue is caused by the bite of the female Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the same species responsible for spreading other viruses like Zika, Chikungunya, etc. It is a mosquito-borne disease caused by four related viruses (called serotypes) namely Dengue virus 1, 2, 3, and 4. Once you are infected with one of these viruses, your body tends to develop immunity to that particular virus, however, you can still catch the other three viruses and get infected at a later stage in life. Because of this very reason, a person can be reinfected with Dengue in his/her lifetime. Although outbreaks in India were mainly due to serotypes 2 and 3 (DENV-2 and DENV-3), dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1) was the predominant serotype reported in the 2010 Delhi outbreak. Dengue Fever Symptoms Dengue is a virus that is transmitted by mosquitoes. It can cause severe flu-like symptoms, including: Nausea or vomiting Headache Vomiting Rashes on the body Muscle and joint pain Body ache Severe headache High fever Dengue can also lead to more serious complications such as hemorrhagic fever and death.  Causes of Dengue The dengue virus is transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. They are found in tropical and subtropical areas. The virus can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Dengue fever is the most common form of the disease. It is characterised by a high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, and a rash. Dengue haemorrhagic fever is a more severe form of the disease. It can lead to bleeding from the nose or gums, as well as organ failure. Lastly, Dengue shock syndrome is the most severe form of the disease, and it can be fatal.  Tests for Dengue Doctors use simple blood tests for diagnosing dengue fever. These tests can check for the viral antibodies or the presence of a specific antigen. The most definitive test for Dengue includes a rapid point of care test, known as Dengue NS1 antigen test which can help in identifying the fever early and with more promptness. It increases the likelihood of providing a confirmed diagnosis which enables the doctor to provide patients with appropriate and timely advice and quick follow-ups as well. For patients presenting more than 1 week after fever onset, IgM detection is most useful, although NS1 has been reported positive up to 12 days after fever onset.Dengue fever usually results in a decreased platelet count in most people. Therefore, the platelet count should be monitored carefully and regularly. A complete blood count (CBC) test gives a complete blood picture along with the platelet count. Make sure to get tested on time.Typically, if you have dengue, you will be positive for dengue-specific NS1 antigen, a decrease in platelet count, and a decrease in total white blood cells (WBC) count. Treatment of Dengue There is no specific treatment for dengue fever. The focus is on relieving symptoms and supporting the body as it fights the infection. This includes actions like: Taking rest and consuming plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration Using pain relief medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen for headaches and muscle pain Using anti-motion sickness medications such as meclizine and promethazine for nausea and vomiting Consuming a fever reducer such as acetaminophen or diphenhydramine for fever Utilising mosquito repellent to prevent further bites Prevention is the best method of avoiding dengue fever, but these medications and measures can be used to effectively treat and recover from the illness. Prevention of Dengue Here are a few measures you can undertake to prevent the onset of this terrible illness: Vaccination In many parts of the world, a dengue vaccine has been developed. It is given in three doses over a year. However, you are eligible for this vaccine only if you have had the disease at least once, or have tested positive.  Use Mosquito Repellent When outdoors, use mosquito repellent on exposed skin. Most mosquito repellents contain one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanoate.  DEET is the most common and most effective active ingredient. Higher percentages of DEET provide longer protection time against mosquito bites, but won’t last any longer than 10 hours. Look for products with 20% to 30% DEET for adults and less than 10% DEET for children. Picaridin is just as effective as DEET but can be used safely on kids aged two months and older.  The oil of lemon eucalyptus is also as effective as DEET but should not be used on kids under three years old.If you’re using a spray repellent, apply it to your clothing first and then rub it in so you don’t miss a spot.  Reduce Mosquito Habitats Mosquitoes can lay their eggs in any stagnant water, no matter how small. Once the eggs hatch, the mosquitoes can start reproducing in as little as a week. To help prevent mosquito-borne diseases: Reduce mosquito habitats by emptying standing water from flowerpots, gutters, buckets, pool covers, pet water dishes, discarded tires and anything else that can hold water. Change the water in bird baths at least once a week. Drill holes in tire swings so water drains out. Keep swimming pools clean and chlorinated. Wear Appropriate Clothing When going outdoors, it is important to wear clothing that covers as much of the body as possible. This includes long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks. If possible, choose light-coloured clothing since mosquitoes are attracted to darker colours. Wear closed-toe shoes instead of sandals or flip-flops. If weather permits, consider spraying clothing with an insecticide such as permethrin. You can also find clothing that has been treated with permethrin. Diagnosis of Dengue Dengue is typically diagnosed based on the symptoms a person is experiencing. Doctors may also order a blood test to look for antibodies that are specific to the dengue virus, or they may order a PCR test to confirm the diagnosis. An important metric in these blood tests is the platelet count. If it goes beneath a certain number, it can be a cause for concern. In some cases, a doctor may also order an imaging test to look for signs of internal bleeding. Risk Factors of Dengue There are two specific risk factors associated with dengue. They are: Living in Tropical Areas: The most important risk factor for dengue is living in or travelling to an endemic area. Dengue is found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, including Latin America, Africa, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. If you live in or are visiting one of these areas, you're at risk of being infected with the virus. Previously Infected with Dengue: If you have been infected with dengue in the past, you are at risk for developing more severe symptoms if you are infected again. This is because your body has developed antibodies to the virus, which can lead to a more intense immune response.  Conclusion In closing, dengue is a potentially life-threatening disease. It affects millions of people around the world. It is important to be aware of the causes, symptoms and treatments so that you can recognize it in its early stages and seek prompt medical attention if necessary.  Additionally, taking preventive measures such as eliminating potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes should help reduce the chances of contracting this virus. By following these tips, you can keep your family safe from dengue fever and other mosquito-borne illnesses. If you are displaying symptoms of dengue and want to make a clear diagnosis, then contact Metropolis Healthcare for a blood test. 

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