What is Dengue?
Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes. It is common in tropical and subtropical areas. Many people call it “breakbone fever” because it can cause severe pain. Dengue can affect anyone, but it is more common in cities and warm climates. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of cases occur each year worldwide. In some places, outbreaks happen during rainy seasons. Because the disease can be serious, it is important to know about dengue fever symptoms, causes, and how to prevent dengue.
Symptoms of Dengue
Usually, symptoms appear four to ten days after a mosquito bite. However, not everyone gets sick. Some people may have mild symptoms, while others feel very unwell. Common dengue fever symptoms include:
Sometimes, dengue can become severe. This is called severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. In these cases, people may have:
If you notice these signs, seek medical help right away. Early care can save lives.
Causes and Transmission
Dengue is caused by the dengue virus. There are four types of this virus. The main way people get dengue is through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon. They breed in standing water, such as buckets, flower pots, or old tires. Because the virus does not spread from person to person, you cannot catch dengue by touching someone who is sick. However, if a mosquito bites an infected person, it can spread the virus to others.
Diagnosis of Dengue
Doctors diagnose dengue by looking at your symptoms and recent travel history. However, because many illnesses cause fever, a blood test is often needed. This test checks for the dengue virus or your body’s response to it. Sometimes, more than one test is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Early diagnosis helps doctors give the right care and watch for warning signs.
Treatment Options
There is no specific medicine to cure dengue. Most people get better with rest and care at home. However, some may need to stay in the hospital if symptoms are severe. Treatment focuses on:
If you have trouble drinking, severe pain, or bleeding, seek medical help quickly. Doctors can provide fluids through a vein and monitor your health closely.
Prevention Tips
Because there is no widely available vaccine for dengue in many countries, prevention is key. You can lower your risk by:
In some areas, local health teams spray insecticides to control mosquitoes. However, everyone can help by keeping their surroundings clean and dry.
Lifestyle and Home Care Guidance
If you or a loved one has dengue, home care is important. Here are some tips:
But remember, do not give aspirin or ibuprofen. These can make bleeding worse. If symptoms get worse, contact a healthcare provider right away.
In summary, dengue is a serious illness, but you can take important steps to protect yourself and your family. Stay aware of symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, joint pain, or rash. Follow prevention measures like avoiding mosquito bites, keeping your surroundings clean, and removing stagnant water.
If you experience any symptoms or need guidance, seek medical help promptly.
For personalised advice and proper evaluation, consult the healthcare professionals at Narayan Swaroop Hospital, Prayagraj.