Not Just Dengue… Do You Know About Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever? It’s Life-Threatening. Who’s at Risk and Why?
What is Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever?
Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe form of the dengue virus. It occurs when blood vessels in the body are damaged, and platelet counts drop rapidly. If not treated in time, it can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death.
Who is at Higher Risk?
Anyone can contract dengue hemorrhagic fever, but certain groups are more vulnerable. Children, the elderly, individuals previously infected with dengue, those with weakened immune systems, pregnant women, people living in dengue-prone areas, and patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney, or liver issues face a higher risk.
Symptoms of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever
The symptoms of dengue hemorrhagic fever initially resemble those of regular dengue but become more severe after a few days. Common symptoms include high fever (up to 104°F), headache, pain behind the eyes, severe muscle and joint pain, red rashes on the body, bleeding from the nose, gums, or skin, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, and a rapid drop in platelet count.
How to Prevent Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever?
The best way to prevent dengue hemorrhagic fever is to avoid mosquito bites. Here are some key measures to follow:
- Use mosquito nets, especially while sleeping.
- Wear full-sleeve clothing to cover the skin.
- Prevent water stagnation around your home, as it promotes mosquito breeding.
- Regularly clean coolers, buckets, pots, and other containers.
- Use mosquito repellent sprays.
- Take extra precautions during summer and monsoon seasons.
Treatment for Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue hemorrhagic fever, but timely detection can save lives. Supportive care from a doctor, such as IV drips, platelet monitoring, paracetamol for fever and pain, and ICU care in severe cases, can be highly effective. Never take medications like aspirin or ibuprofen on your own, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. If you notice the symptoms mentioned above, consult a doctor immediately, get a blood test (CBC, platelet count), drink plenty of water, and rest as much as possible.
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