Dengue cases on the rise: Experts share tips for treatment at home

Dengue, a mosquito-borne disease, is a life-threatening public health concern in India. With thousands of people flooding OPDs (out-patient departments) in various states of the country, many deaths have also been reported in the last week.

While the surge in dengue cases is attributed to various factors, including receding floodwaters acting as breeding grounds for mosquitoes, Dengue fever which lasts about 8-10 days is a remittable disease.

Dengue fever is caused by any one of four types of dengue viruses, spread through mosquito bites. Symptoms include high fever, headache, body aches, nausea, and rash. Severe dengue can cause belly pain, vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, and extreme fatigue.

While there is currently no specific treatment or cure for Dengue, experts have shared tips to manage the symptoms of the disease so that patients can recover from the illness as soon as possible.

Dr Tushar Tayal, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, said that not all Dengue patients require hospitalisation. The majority of them can be managed at home with simple measures.

HYDRATION IS KEY

"Hydration is the mainstay of Dengue management. Ensure that the patient consumes 4-5 litres of liquids every day," said Dr Tushar Tayal.

Dr Neetu Jain, Pulmonologist at PSRI Hospital agreed to this as well and said that since Dengue patients experience loss of fluids because of capillary leaks, a lot of fluid intake is necessary during this time.

"If there is capillary leak in the blood, a person's blood pressure goes down and this condition can become even more serious than your platelet count going down. Drink lots of fluids and maintain a good urine outfit. Have water, lemon water and coconut water," said Dr Neetu Jain.

AVOID SELF-TREATMENTS WITH PAINKILLERS

Dr Jain also cautioned people to stay away from self-medication or resorting to indigenous methods of treatment.

"Do not treat yourself with painkillers. If you take generic painkiller medicines, it could increase the chance of bleeding. Don't indulge in indigenous medications as they can cause gastroenteritis (bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract or GI).

SAY NO TO PAPAYA LEAF JUICE

Dr Jain said to stay away from homemade kaadas or even payapa juice as they are too hot for the body's environment and can cause bleeding in the stomach.

In fact, Dr Tayal said that the popular trend of having papaya leaf juice is extremely "unpleasant in taste and may lead to further vomiting and loose stools, which can worsen the underlying dehydration."

"Instead of drinking papaya juice, have fresh fruits, vegetable soups and coconut water to boost immunity," underscored Dr Tayal.

BOOST YOUR IMMUNITY

A Dengue patient needs to keep having small meals throughout the day to keep up their immunity, otherwise, it can cause immense weakness, shared Dr Jain.

"In case you feel nauseous or feel like throwing up, then consult a doctor immediately so that you can be hydrated via IV fluids," said Dr Jain.

Dr Neha Rastogi, Infectious Disease, Fortis Memorial Research Institute said that protein intake should also be given priority during the illness as it aids in rebuilding immune cells and tissues.

"Vitamin C-rich foods, like citrus fruits, can support immune function. Dengue can leave you vulnerable to other infections, so practising good hygiene is crucial. Avoiding non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) during the illness can prevent complications," Dr Neha Rastogi told IndiaToday.in.

Additionally, maintaining a clean environment to eliminate mosquito breeding sites helps prevent reinfection.

MAY EXPERIENCE PROLONGED PERIODS

Another important point highlighted by Dr Jain is how most women who have Dengue might undergo prolonged menstruation. She said that hydration during this time could be the key measure.

Combining these lesser-known strategies with medical guidance can contribute to a faster and smoother recovery from Dengue.

Why are deaths caused due to Dengue?

"Deaths are not because of thrombasthenia (weak platelets) or bleeding. Deaths happen because of shock due to capillary leaks. That's why it is important to keep yourself hydrated. If you're vomiting or feeling extremely weak and experience headaches and pain in the abdomen, you need to go to a doctor so that the patient is put on IV fluids instantly," said Dr Jain.