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Dengue Fever: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment - Dr. Axico

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected female mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment is crucial for timely intervention.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever:

High Fever: Dengue fever typically begins with a sudden high fever, often as high as 104-105°F (40-41°C).

Severe Headache: This is a common symptom and is often accompanied by pain behind the eyes.

Joint and Muscle Pain: Severe joint and muscle pain, often referred to as "break-bone fever," is a distinctive feature.

Rash: A rash may appear over most of the body, usually two to five days after the onset of fever.

Bleeding: Some individuals may experience mild bleeding from the nose or gums, or easy bruising.

Mild to Severe Thrombocytopenia: Dengue fever can lead to a decrease in platelet count, which can cause bleeding complications.

Fatigue: Extreme fatigue and weakness are common, even after the fever subsides.

Abdominal Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen may occur, especially in children.

Vomiting and Nausea: These symptoms are also common, especially in the early stages.

Causes of Dengue Fever: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. There are four distinct but closely related serotypes of the virus (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4). Once a person is infected with one serotype, they can still contract the other serotypes.

Treatment of Dengue Fever:

Rest: Adequate rest is crucial to help the body recover from the fever.

Hydration: Maintaining proper hydration levels is essential. Oral rehydration solutions or intravenous fluids may be administered if necessary.

Pain Relievers: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) can be used to reduce fever and relieve pain. Avoid using aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can increase the risk of bleeding.

Medical Monitoring: Regular monitoring of vital signs, platelet count, and hematocrit levels is important, especially for severe cases.

Hospitalization (in severe cases): Severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, requires immediate medical attention and may necessitate hospitalization.

Prevention of Mosquito Bites: To prevent the spread of dengue, individuals should use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, and stay in air-conditioned or screened-in areas.

Platelet Transfusions (in severe cases): If platelet levels drop dangerously low, platelet transfusions may be necessary.

Conclusion: Early detection and appropriate management of dengue fever at Dr. Axico. are crucial for a full recovery. If you suspect you have dengue fever, seek medical attention promptly. Moreover, preventing mosquito bites and controlling mosquito breeding sites are essential in curtailing the spread of the virus.