Dengue fever is at its peak in rainy seasons, which is a vector-borne disease transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito found in the tropical and subtropical regions. If preventive measures are taken timely, then it could be cured easily with natural remedies or one can even restrain totally. People who are infected start showing symptoms of dengue after three to fourteen days of infection. On the other hand, some people infected with the virus don’t even have any symptoms. Some most common symptoms reported by patients are high fever, headache, vomiting, muscle and joint pains, and a characteristic skin rash. Besides these, patients have also experienced swollen glands, rapid breathing, lethargy and eye pain. On investigation, the blood platelet counts also show a decrease.
Also Read: Decoding Dengue Fever: All About Its Diagnosis and Treatment
“Fever in children commonly settles for a day and then returns, a pattern that has been called saddleback fever. A second rash may occur within one to two days of effervescence, which may last for one to five days, spares the palms and soles, and occasionally desquamates. Normally, the infection causes high fever, which can rise to 104 F accompanied by headache, muscle, bone or joint pain,” says Dr Paul.
After about one week if a mosquito bites this person, it can then transmit the virus by biting a healthy person. Dengue cannot transmit directly from human beings.
Dr Paul further added, “Mild cases of Dengue fever can be treated by consuming a good quantity of fluids to prevent dehydration, whereas headaches and other dengue-related body pains could be eased by pain relievers. But aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided when taking relievers for the pain.”
In maximum cases of dengue, fever settles in a day or two without any after-effect. If the symptoms worsen in a day or two after the fever, then it could be an indication of DHF where one must immediately seek medical care. If treatment is started early, then patients are given intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes (salts) which makes up for those lost through vomiting or loose motions. In more advanced cases, the doctor may opt for blood transfusion.
Talking particularly in children, Dr Paul says, “There is no vaccine to prevent the infection, but the best way is by preventing infected mosquito bites. Therefore, a patient of dengue must be protected from a mosquito bite as it can infect other people with its bite.”
Simple remedies can effectively help in preventing mosquito bite and preparing the body to fight the infection like -- consuming plenty of water helps a patient in being hydrated as there has been enough loss by excessive sweating and exertion. Apart from this, it also relieves headaches and muscle cramps. It also helps wash out toxins.
Juice of Papaya leaves have a mix of nutrients and organic compounds along with a high level of vitamin C, which helps in increasing the platelet count. The leaves also stimulate the immune system the antioxidants in it help in reducing stress and remove toxins from the body.
Basil leaves improve the overall immunity of a person. It has essential oils with natural insecticidal properties which keep mosquitoes at bay.
Also Read: Read Experts Tips To Keep Safe From Mosquitoes In The Pandemic Times
Neem leaves have medicinal properties, known to increase platelet and white blood cell count. Properly brewed neem leaves also improve the immune system.
As Oranges are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, it promotes antibodies in the immune system. Also, it has Vitamin C, which is crucial in creating collagen. So, Orange juice could be a good way of consuming it.
With inputs from Dr Sisir Paul, Director & Head of Department of Pediatrics, Madhukar Rainbow Children’s Hospital
Read more articles on Other Diseases