Dengue Fever

What is it?

Dengue fever is a viral illness transmitted by Aedesmosquitoes. It’s most commonly found in tropical and subtropical climates. It is characterized by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pain, and rash.

What are the symptoms?

High fever
Severe headache
Pain behind the eyes
Joint and muscle pain
Rash
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Skin bleeding (in severe cases)

What else could it be? (Differential diagnosis)

Zika virus: Both share symptoms of fever, rash, and joint pain.
Chikungunya: Similar symptoms, especially joint pain.
Malaria: Fever and fatigue overlap with Dengue.
Leptospirosis: Can present with fever, headache, and muscle pain.

What are the aggravating factors?

Mosquito bites: Primarily by Aedes aegypti or Aedes albopictus mosquitoes.
Living or traveling in tropical regions where dengue is endemic.
Lack of mosquito control measures (stagnant water, no screens on windows).

What types of food are helpful?

Fluids: ORS (oral rehydration solutions) or coconut water to maintain hydration.
High-protein, easy-to-digest foods: Boiled eggs, soups, and plain rice.
Fresh fruits and vegetables: Rich in vitamins and minerals to support immune function.

Sample Recipe: Coconut Water Smoothie

1 cup fresh coconut water
1 banana
1 tablespoon honey
½ cup pineapple chunks
Blend until smooth and serve chilled.

What are the traditional treatments?

Pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever and pain relief (avoid ibuprofen or aspirin due to bleeding risk).
Hydration: Fluid and electrolyte replacement to prevent dehydration.
Bed rest: Essential to reduce strain on the body during recovery.

What are the natural and alternative treatments?

Papaya leaf extract: Some studies suggest it may help increase platelet count.
Elderberry: Known for boosting immune function and reducing fever.
Ginger tea: Can soothe nausea and improve digestion.
Turmeric: Its anti-inflammatory properties may support healing.