As the monsoon season creates ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, dengue outbreaks are increasing in cities of Karnataka, Kerala and Maharashtra. But if we remain vigilant, we can control this disease.
Symptoms of Dengue
Dengue fever causes sudden onset of fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, nausea, vomiting, swollen glands and rash. These usually appear 4-10 days after the mosquito bite and can last for 2-10 days. Early diagnosis is essential because it can quickly turn into severe dengue, also called dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, when the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your bloodstream decreases and your blood vessels become so damaged that they leak. This can lead to shock, internal bleeding and organ failure.
When to get tested for dengue?
If you have the symptoms mentioned above, go for a dengue NS1 antigen test, which measures the non-structural proteins of the virus or PCR tests. Then take an IgM antibody test on the fourth or fifth day when you are most likely to have it. Get a complete blood count (CBC) done and if diagnosed, repeat it on alternate days to check the platelet levels. One of the most important markers is PCV (packed cell volume), which is a measure of the viscosity of the blood. It indicates an increase in red blood cells or dehydration.
Why is hydration important?
Usually the patient feels better after the fever subsides in four to five days and complications may arise after the fourth day if the patient has not kept himself well hydrated to compensate for the fluid loss due to fever and vomiting. Take three to five liters of water or oral rehydration solution, coconut water and clear soup. Severe dengue may lead to plasma leakage and may require intravenous (IV) fluid therapy in the hospital.
How to prevent dengue
Regular blood tests to monitor platelet levels and importantly hematocrit levels can help manage complications. The hematocrit level is simply the percentage of red cells in your blood. In dengue, an increased hematocrit is a sign of plasma leakage, while a low hematocrit is a sign of bleeding. If platelet levels drop significantly, medical intervention may be necessary.
Hematocrit levels should be monitored every 24 hours for early detection of dengue hemorrhagic fever and every 3-4 hours in severe cases of dengue hemorrhagic fever. Painkillers and fever-reducing medicines like paracetamol can help manage the symptoms. Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen as they can increase the risk of bleeding, a serious complication of dengue. Do not push yourself too much even if you feel better, rest is important to not let the condition worsen.
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