Early Signs of Dengue Fever & Timely Treatment

Dengue Fever: A Prevalent Disease in Thailand

Dengue fever is a common illness in Thailand, especially during the rainy season when mosquito populations surge. This disease affects individuals across all age groups, making early detection and treatment crucial to prevent severe complications.

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which has four serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. The primary vector is the female Aedes aegypti mosquito. After being bitten by an infected mosquito, symptoms typically appear within 3 to 15 days. The disease spreads rapidly, particularly in areas with standing water and environments conducive to mosquito breeding.

High-Risk Groups for Dengue Fever

While dengue can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications:

Infants
Elderly individuals
Pregnant women
Individuals with chronic conditions such as congenital heart disease, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and ischemic heart disease
Those taking medications like steroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Stages and Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever progresses through three distinct phases, each with specific symptoms:

Febrile Phase: Sudden high fever (≥38.5°C), severe headache, muscle and joint pain, facial flushing, and possible skin rash. This phase lasts 2 to 7 days.
Critical Phase: Occurs as fever subsides. Warning signs include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums or nose, fatigue, restlessness, and blood in vomit or stool. This phase lasts 24 to 48 hours and requires close monitoring.
Recovery Phase: Gradual improvement with stable vital signs, return of appetite, and possible rash. This phase lasts 2 to 3 days

Early Detection of Dengue Fever

Early recognition of dengue symptoms is vital. Key indicators include:

High fever unresponsive to typical antipyretics
Severe headache and muscle pain
Signs of bleeding (e.g., petechiae, gum bleeding)
Severe abdominal pain and persistent vomiting

If these symptoms are present, seek medical attention promptly.

Treatment of Dengue Fever

Once dengue fever is confirmed through laboratory tests, doctors will begin treatment with the goal of helping the patient’s body return to a stable condition as quickly as possible. Medical staff will closely monitor the patient during the critical 24–48 hour period to prevent shock and other complications.

The first and most important treatment approach is intravenous fluid replacement, especially in patients who have lost a significant amount of body fluids due to persistent vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure after high fever, or loss of appetite. IV fluids help to restore hydration and maintain blood circulation.

Pain and fever management is also essential. Doctors may prescribe medications such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) to reduce fever and relieve muscle and joint pain. In addition, patients will be given oral rehydration salts (ORS) to help replace fluids and electrolytes lost from the body.

In cases of severe internal bleeding, a blood transfusion may be required to prevent shock from blood loss. During the course of treatment, doctors must regularly perform blood tests to monitor key indicators such as platelet count, white blood cell levels, hematocrit levels, and blood pressure, to track the patient’s condition and prevent complications.

There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Management focuses on supportive care:

Hydration: Adequate fluid intake is crucial. In severe cases, intravenous fluids may be administered.
Pain and Fever Relief: Use acetaminophen to alleviate symptoms. Avoid NSAIDs and aspirin due to bleeding risk.
Monitoring: Regular blood tests to monitor platelet counts and hematocrit levels.

Preventive Measures for Dengue Fever

Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Regularly remove standing water in containers, flower pots, and other receptacles.
Protective Measures: Use mosquito repellents, wear long-sleeved clothing, and install window screens or bed nets.
Vaccination: Vaccines like Qdenga have been approved in some regions. Consult healthcare providers for availability and recommendations.
Regular Health Check-ups: Routine medical examinations help in early detection and management of potential health issues.

Early detection and proper medical care are essential in managing dengue fever effectively and reducing the risk of severe complications.

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