Dengue Fever Alert!

Suspect dengue when a high fever (40°C/ 104°F) is accompanied by two of the following symptoms:

• Severe headache
• Pain behind the eyes
• Nausea, Vomiting
• Swollen glands
• Muscle and joint pains
• Rash

Severe dengue is a potentially deadly complication due to plasma leaking, fluid accumulation, respiratory distress, severe bleeding, or organ impairment. The warning signs to look out for occur 3-7 days after the first symptoms in conjunction with a decrease in temperature (below 38°C/ 100°F) include:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Rapid breathing
• Bleeding gums
• Blood in vomit
• Fatigue, restlessness

Treatment:
 
Being a virus, antibiotics are not effective against Dengue. Patients should seek medical advice, take rest and drink plenty of fluids. Paracetamol can be taken to bring down fever and reduce joint pains. However, aspirin or ibuprofen should not be taken since they can increase the risk of bleeding.
For severe dengue, medical care by doctors can frequently save lives. Maintenance of the patient's circulating fluid volume is critical.
 
Contact Kauvery Hospital, Chennai at 044 4000 6000 if you suspect having Dengue Fever.

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