Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, is a significant public health concern in India, with an estimated 100,000 cases reported annually by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control. Caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, the disease typically manifests as a sudden high fever accompanied by intense headaches, muscle and joint pain, a distinctive skin rash, and potential bleeding tendencies. While these symptoms are uncomfortable, the real danger lies in the progression to severe dengue, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by severe bleeding, a low blood platelet count, and dangerously low blood pressure. In this article, we’ll have a look at early 7 warning signs of dengue fever.
This comprehensive guide aims to equip individuals with the knowledge to combat dengue. We will delve into the early warning signs that signal a potential escalation to severe dengue, explore diagnostic methods, discuss treatment options, and, most importantly, emphasize crucial preventive measures to curtail the spread of this debilitating disease.
Understanding the nature of dengue and its potential complications is essential for early detection and effective management, particularly in a country like India where the disease poses a persistent health threat.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a viral disease spread to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily the Aedes aegypti species. It is caused by a virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family.
This mosquito-borne illness is common in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. While dengue typically isn’t spread from person to person, there is a possibility of transmission from a pregnant woman to her child.
The first infection often results in mild symptoms, but subsequent infections increase the risk of developing a severe form of the disease. Let us look into different categories of dengue fever.
Dengue fever is divided into four different categories:
- Dengue with warning signs: Symptoms include abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, enlarged liver (> 2 cm), coughing, difficulty breathing, pleural effusion, a drop in platelet count, gum swelling or bleeding, or nose bleeding.
- Dengue without warning signs: Symptoms of dengue typically appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite. Common signs include a high fever (around 104°F), a severe headache, pain behind the eyes, and a rash resembling measles. These symptoms are often accompanied by intense muscle aches.
- Severe Dengue (Hemorrhagic Fever): Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is a more severe form of dengue that occurs when a person is infected with a different dengue virus type after recovering from a previous infection. This second infection can trigger a more severe response from the immune system, leading to a potential second spike in fever and other complications. To prevent this, it’s crucial to protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellents and sleeping under mosquito nets after recovering from dengue.
- Dengue shock syndrome: Dengue shock syndrome is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a person with dengue develops severe bleeding and circulatory collapse.
How Does the Dengue Mosquito Spread?
Dengue is spread by Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes thrive in clean, stagnant water sources like those found in old tires, coconut shells, or rainwater containers. Often found in urban areas with poor sanitation, these mosquitoes primarily bite during the day. To prevent dengue, it’s essential to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Early 7 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever
1. High Fever
Dengue fever typically starts with a sudden and high fever, often reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).
2. Persistent Vomiting
Persistent and severe vomiting is a serious warning sign of dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. It indicates a significant imbalance of fluids in the body and can lead to dehydration, a dangerous condition requiring immediate medical attention. Dehydration can further complicate the illness, making prompt treatment essential.
3. Severe Headache
Intense headaches, sometimes referred to as dengue headaches, are commonly experienced during the early stages of the illness.
4. Rash
A distinctive rash with small red or pink spots often appears a few days after the fever starts and spreads across the body.
5. Joint and Muscle Pain
Severe joint and muscle pain linked to aching bones can be a symptom of dengue fever or breakbone fever.
6. Bleeding Tendencies
Some individuals may experience mild bleeding from the nose or gums, along with easy bruising, indicating a drop in platelet count.
7. Cold or Clammy Skin
Cold, pale, or clammy skin can be a serious warning sign of severe dengue. As the illness worsens, it can lead to shock, characterized by low blood pressure, a rapid, weak pulse, and confusion. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Severe Symptoms of Dengue
Severe symptoms usually occur after the fever has gone away. It includes:
- severe abdominal pain
- persistent vomiting
- rapid breathing
- bleeding gums or nose
- fatigue
- restlessness
- blood in vomit or stool
- being very thirsty
- pale and cold skin
- feeling weak.
If you face these symptoms, immediately consult your doctor.
Risk Factors for Dengue Fever
Geographic Location
Dengue is a recurring health issue in tropical and subtropical regions. Over time, it has transformed into a widespread epidemic in urban areas. This surge is primarily attributed to factors such as elevated temperatures often found in cities (urban heat islands), dense populations, rapid construction activities, inadequate waste management systems, and improper water storage practices.
Age
Both young children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to dengue infection. In severe cases, it can lead to a life-threatening condition known as dengue hemorrhagic fever. Older individuals, especially those with weakened immune systems due to underlying health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or respiratory problems, are at increased risk of severe dengue complications.
Immune System
Individuals with weak immune systems are at higher risk of developing dengue fever.
Pregnancy
Dengue infection during pregnancy poses risks to both the mother and the child. The virus can be transmitted to the unborn baby, potentially leading to complications such as low birth weight, premature delivery, or even foetal death.
Previous Dengue Infection
Individuals who have had dengue before are at a higher risk of experiencing severe dengue infection if they contract the virus again.
Tests for the Diagnosis of Dengue Virus
Dengue diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Healthcare providers assess symptoms, medical history, and travel history to determine the likelihood of dengue infection.
Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and gastrointestinal issues. A physical examination may reveal signs like a skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, or indications of bleeding or low blood pressure.
Laboratory tests are crucial for confirming dengue. Molecular tests, such as RT-PCR, directly detect the dengue virus in the blood. Serology tests identify dengue antibodies, indicating a current or past infection. IgM and IgG antibody tests are commonly used. Additionally, a complete blood count (CBC) helps assess the platelet count, which is often decreased in dengue infections.
How Do You Prevent Dengue Fever?
You can lower the risk of getting dengue by:
Protecting yourself from mosquito bites by using:
- Clothing that covers your body as much as possible.
- Mosquito net or mosquito repellent.
- Stay in a well-screened house.
Prevent mosquito breeding by:
- Disposing of solid waste properly.
- Removing artificial, man-made habitat that can hold water.
- Covering and cleaning domestic water storage containers.
- Applying insecticide to an outside water storage container.
If you get infected by dengue:
- Take rest.
- Drink water and keep yourself hydrated.
- Watch for symptoms and contact your doctor.
Dengue Fever Treatment
Dengue fever treatment focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and aiding recovery. Key approaches include proper hydration through oral or intravenous fluids, pain relief with medications like acetaminophen, adequate rest, and close monitoring of vital signs.
To address potential complications such as bleeding or organ damage, specific interventions may be necessary. While supportive care, including emotional support and a nutritious diet, is essential, there’s currently no specific antiviral treatment for dengue.
Therefore, seeking timely medical attention and following healthcare professionals advice is crucial for effective management of the disease.
Takeaway
Dengue is a common illness that affects millions of people annually. While most cases are mild or without symptoms, the potential for severe dengue is a significant concern. Fortunately, you can protect yourself by taking precautions against mosquito bites and being aware of severe dengue warning signs.
If you’re travelling to areas with dengue risk, it’s important to know where to seek emergency care if needed. While severe dengue is a serious condition, early medical treatment significantly improves recovery chances.
