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With the pitter-patter of approaching monsoons in Delhi, comes a surge in not just greenery, but also mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever. Dengue, a potentially debilitating illness, thrives in the warm, humid conditions brought on by the rains. This blog will equip you with the knowledge to navigate the monsoon season, understand dengue fever, and prioritize preventive measures to stay healthy.
Synopsis
The Dengue Threat in Delhi Monsoons
Monsoon rains create ideal breeding grounds for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, the primary culprit behind dengue transmission. Stagnant water accumulating in discarded containers clogged drains, coolers and even puddles can become nurseries for these mosquitoes. As mosquito populations soar, the risk of getting infected with dengue also rises significantly. Delhi, like many other Indian cities, witnesses a spike in dengue cases during and after the monsoons.
Don't Let Dengue Dampen Your Spirits: Understanding the Disease
Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted through the Aedes mosquito bite. While it often presents with flu-like symptoms, dengue can also progress to a severe and potentially life-threatening form. Let's delve deeper.
The Culprit: Dengue Fever Causes
Dengue fever is caused by any one of the four serotypes of the dengue virus. These viruses are primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitos, particularly the Aedes aegypti species. Here's a crucial point: getting infected with one serotype doesn't guarantee immunity to the others. In fact, subsequent infections with different serotypes can increase the risk of developing severe dengue. Follow prevention strategies to mitigate these dengue fever causes.
Dengue Fever Symptoms
Dengue fever can manifest in various ways, ranging from completely asymptomatic to a debilitating illness. Here's a breakdown of the spectrum of dengue fever symptoms:
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No symptoms: Up to 80% of dengue infections may cause no noticeable symptoms at all.
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Mild dengue fever: This is the most common presentation, characterized by flu-like symptoms such as:
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Sudden high fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)
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Muscle, bone, and joint aches, often described as a breaking sensation (hence the name break-bone fever)
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Fatigue
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Rash: A reddish, flat or slightly raised rash may appear on the face and body
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These symptoms typically last for 2-7 days and resolve on their own with proper rest and hydration.
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Severe dengue: In a small percentage of cases, dengue fever can progress to a severe form, characterized by:
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Plasma leakage: This leads to a sudden drop in blood pressure and fluid accumulation around organs.
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Internal bleeding: This can manifest as bleeding from the nose, gums, or gastrointestinal tract.
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Severe organ impairment: The liver and kidneys can be severely affected.
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Severe dengue is a medical emergency and warrants immediate hospitalization.
Consult our internal medicine doctor in Delhi if you are experiencing dengue symptoms and undergo a dengue test for further treatment.
Protecting Yourself: Dengue Fever Prevention Strategies
There's currently no specific medication to treat dengue fever. However, the good news is that several effective dengue fever prevention strategies can significantly reduce your risk of contracting the disease:
Mosquito bite prevention: This is the cornerstone of dengue prevention. Here are some tips:
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Apply mosquito repellent containing picaridin, DEET, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
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Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks when outdoors, especially during peak mosquito-biting times (dawn and dusk).
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Eliminate mosquito breeding grounds around your home by removing stagnant water sources like discarded tyres, containers, and clogged gutters.
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Consider using mosquito nets while sleeping in areas with high dengue risk.
When to Seek Dengue Fever Treatment
If you experience any symptoms suggestive of dengue fever, especially after visiting a high-risk area, consult our expert internal medicine doctor in Delhi immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve patient outcomes. Be sure to mention your travel history to the doctor. There is no specific antiviral medication to fight dengue fever itself. However, treatment focuses on managing the symptoms & preventing complications. Here's how doctors typically approach dengue infection:
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Rest: Getting plenty of rest allows your body to focus on fighting the infection.
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Hydration: Dengue can lead to dehydration due to fever and vomiting. Drinking plenty of fluids, including oral rehydration solutions, is crucial.
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Pain relievers: Medications like paracetamol can help manage fever and muscle aches. Consulting a doctor before taking any medicine is highly recommended to avoid any side effects and complications.
If you develop severe dengue, hospitalization is essential for close monitoring and intensive care. Remember, staying informed, practising preventive measures, and seeking timely medical attention are crucial steps in protecting yourself and your loved ones from dengue fever.
Consult our internal medicine hospital in Delhi if you need dengue fever treatment.
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