Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus transmitted from the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. There are no specific medications or antivirals to treat dengue fever so treatment is directed towards the relief of symptoms.
“We advise dengue patients to rest and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration from high fever, poor oral intake or vomiting. Paracetamol can be taken for the fever and to reduce joint pains. However, pain-relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen should be avoided as it they may increase bleeding complications,” said Dr Pushpalatha, Senior Consultant from the Department of Infectious Disease at Sengkang General Hospital (SKH), a member of the SingHealth group.
Dengue fever usually lasts between 2 to 7 days. Most people recover from dengue infection without requiring hospital admission.
4 Things to do to recover from dengue fever fast
1. Maintain adequate hydration
Drink plenty of fluids (water, isotonic drinks, fruit juices and soup) to maintain hydration. Avoid tea, coffee, alcohol and soft drinks with high sugar content which may cause dehydration If you are unable to drink due to nausea or vomiting, fluids may be given intravenously by drip.
2. Keep symptoms under control
Fever and joint pains can be relieved by taking paracetamol. Medications may be prescribed for nausea, vomiting and if there are itchy rashes. Rashes usually resolve on its own over two to three weeks.
Avoid pain-relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen and mefenamic acid) as they may cause gastric ulcers and subsequent bleeding in your stomach or intestines. Some of these medications may thin the blood and increase chances of bleeding leading to complications requiring hospital admission. If unsure, please consult your doctor.
3. Avoid bleeding
Rest in bed, reduce risk of falls and injuries to avoid risk of unnecessary bleeding. Intramuscular injections should be avoided. If you develop bleeding, bruises or swellings while recovering from dengue fever, please contact your doctor or nurse immediately.
4. Foods to eat and avoid
When asked about foods to eat for healing, Dr Pushpalatha answered, "There are no specific foods to eat or avoid, however the common dictum when one falls sick from any illness applies such as avoid raw, greasy or fat, spicy foods. Light and easy to digest food is advised when one is sick."
When to see a doctor immediately
Please see a doctor immediately If you develop any of following symptoms:
Severe abdominal pain
Persistent vomiting
Vomiting blood
Black and tarry stools
Bleeding from the nose or gums
Drowsiness or irritability
Pale, cold, or clammy (sweaty) skin
Difficulty breathing
Source: www.healthxchange.sg
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