10 Injury Treatment Priorities at the Emergency Room

Dengue Fever

What is Dengue?

Dengue fever is a disease spread by the vector called Aedes mosquito, which breeds on still water that gets collected especially after the end of the summer.  It is primarily transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito but it is non-contagious i.E. It never transmits from one person to another. 

When a mosquito bites a person already infected with dengue, the virus transfers to the salivary gland of the mosquito—when this infected mosquito bites a human, the virus gets transmitted to the person. The mosquito usually bites in the daylight. Dengue is also known as the break-bone fever and typically occurs in tropical regions.

Fast Facts about Dengue 

Only the female Aedes mosquito bites and becomes infected after biting an infected person 

The virus multiplies in the mosquito and the mosquito becomes infective approximately 7 days after biting an infected person 

The mosquito is found mainly in domestic areas and bites human beings in the same areas and often bites repeatedly 

What is Platelet Count?

The dengue virus affects the platelet production in dengue patients. The general lifespan of platelets is about 4 days and the normal count is between 1.5 and 4.5 lakhs. Dengue virus affects the body's ability to form new platelets and decrease the number of platelets already present; the decrease in the platelet count is known as thrombocytopenia. The disability of the body to form new platelets also affects the body's ability to form blood clots. A reduction in the platelet count ups the risk of a brain haemorrhage or bleeding. If the count becomes lower than 20,000-25,000/mm3, then your doctor may recommend platelet transfusion. 

Symptoms of Dengue

The symptoms can be seen only after 3-7 days after a person is bitten by the mosquito. The symptoms of dengue include: 

A severe headache 

Severe joint and muscle pain 

Retro-orbital pain: pain behind the eyes. It may get worse with the slightest movement of the eyes. 

Nausea and vomiting 

Measles: rashes may start over the torso and extend to upper and lower limbs. They may spread from the torso to the arms, legs and the face

The symptoms may disappear after a couple of days and these symptoms only occur at the earliest stage of the fever. More symptoms are seen when the dengue progresses into one of its severe forms: Dengue Shock Syndrome and Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. These two are rare complications of dengue and they can be life-threatening.

Complications of Dengue Dengue is mainly characterized by sudden fever accompanied by severe headaches, joint and muscle pains, nausea, vomiting, skin rash and nose or gum bleeding. But lack of treatment could lead to complicated forms of dengue fever, which are:  Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever -

This is a severe complication of dengue fever. It can be fatal if left untreated. The symptoms of hemorrhagic fever are similar to dengue fever but the former is more severe. If the disease is not severe, the signs and symptoms decrease after the fever resolves.

A person suffering from dengue hemorrhagic fever may experience: 

Damaged blood vessels – leakage of fluid from the blood vessels 

Nose bleeding and bleeding from the mouth and gums

This bleeding may lead to purplish bruises. But in some cases, symptoms of dengue fever resolve and signs of circulatory failure develop which can rapidly progress to severe shock, which can then lead to death within 12-24 hours.

Dengue Shock Syndrome -

This is the most severe condition of dengue and the patient should be taken to the hospital immediately if there is: 

Severe abdominal pain 

Bleeding with vomiting 

Mental irritability 

Fluctuation in body temperature 

Low blood pressure 

Leakage of fluid outside blood vessels 

Dengue shock syndrome could also lead to an organ dysfunction because of low blood pressure. It occurs in only about 5% of the dengue patients but if it is detected, the patient should immediately be taken to the hospital.

Dengue and Pregnancy

The signs and symptoms of Dengue fever and DHF in Pregnancy is similar to that in the non-pregnant patient. In pregnancy infections with dengue virus is not more severe as compared to a non-pregnant patient as in the case, for instance, of malaria. Infection with dengue virus does not increase the risk of foetal malformation or deformity.

Dengue fever can affect the unborn baby. The risks in the unborn child include:

Low birth weight

Preterm birth

Abortion

Death

Diagnosis & Prognosis

People of all age group suffer from dengue fever. Clinical diagnosis of dengue fever can be difficult as the signs and symptoms of dengue fever are similar to that of a viral fever, malaria or typhoid fever. To confirm the diagnosis your doctor will test your blood for the presence of dengue virus. 

Tests done to confirm a diagnosis of dengue fever include a serum or autopsy tissue sample, which is taken to identify the virus. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is also used to identify the virus. The Dengue ELISA test is done to test for IgG and IgM antibodies to dengue virus.

Serological Tests

Acute dengue virus infection is most frequently confirmed by the use of serological tests. Dengue viral antigen can be detected for early diagnosis of the disease. The tests are carried out to detect dengue and also to ascertain the acuteness of the infection. When there is an increase in the dengue antibodies between initial and later samples, the infection is confirmed as acute.

MAC-ELISA 

The MAC-ELISA test is used for rapid confirmation of dengue fever. It needs to be repeated every 10 to 14 days in case the initial test was negative. The samples collected initially and later can be analyzed through what is called hemagglutination inhibition (HI) or made to undergo enzyme immunoassays for definite confirmation or denial of acute dengue infection.

Complex Tests

There are some complex tests called complement fixation and neutralizing antibody which are not possible in every medical centre. Since these assays are very technically demanding, they are possible only in specialized laboratories.

Dengue Virus Isolation

Separation of dengue virus or detecting dengue viral RNA in a patient's sample of serum or tissue gives a confirmation of the infection. But these assays have limited application because of their complex techniques. They are generally performed for the purposes of different types of medical research.

Treatment of Dengue Fever

People with uncomplicated dengue fever improve within two weeks. Treatment offered to people suffering from the mild dengue fever includes: 

Drink plenty of fluids like oral rehydration solution, fresh juice, soups, coconut water. This will help to prevent dehydration due to vomiting and high fever

Bed rest

Antipyretics (medication for fever): Acetaminophen helps to reduce pain and fever. Avoid aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. These drugs increase the risk of bleeding complications

Tepid sponging to reduce fever

The treatment offered to people suffering from the severe form of the disease includes:

Admission in a hospital

Oxygen (if the patient is in shock or is very ill)

Medications to lower fever and to decrease the pain

Blood pressure monitoring (as people with DSS and DHF are at risk of developing very low blood pressure).

Intravenous (IV) fluid and electrolyte replacement to manage fluid loss, prevent dehydration and maintain blood pressure

Blood transfusion to replace blood loss if required

Platelet transfusion if your platelet count decreases

Prompt and judicious administration of fluids (oral and intravenous), supportive care and good monitoring (blood pressure, heart rate, and fluid status) in patients with DHF or DSS can prevent complications and even death.

Prevention from Dengue

The bite of the Aedes mosquito can be prevented by: 

Keeping the windows closed around dawn and dusk to avoid the mosquito from entering the house

Wearing long-sleeved clothes and long pants 

Applying a synthetic chemical insecticide on your shoes and clothing

Using insect repellent. DEET insect repellent is available as liquids, lotions, and sprays. Apply 10-30 per cent DEET insect repellent on your exposed skin. Choose the concentration of DEET insect repellent depending on the hours of protection you need. Higher concentration of DEET gives you longer protection

A mosquito that transmits dengue infection usually lives indoor and is found in dark, cool places like in closets, under beds, behind curtains, and in bathrooms. Use flying-insect spray to kill mosquitoes in these areas

Using flying-insect spray in sleeping area to kill mosquitoes

If you use a mosquito net, prefer one treated with insecticide

Removing standing water from places where mosquitoes can breed like gutters, old tires, buckets, plastic covers or any other container

Clear and change the water in coolers, pools, rain barrels, and potted plant trays at least once a week to eliminate possible mosquito habitats

Regularly treat and circulate the water in the swimming pool

10 Foods You Must Eat During A Viral Fever

Eating healthy can be a great way for you to let your body recover from a viral fever

Viral fever refers to a spike in body temperature caused by a viral infection. It is a common condition characterised by symptoms such as fatigue, body aches, chills, headache, and a low or high-grade fever. Viral fever results when the immune system reacts to fight off viruses, leading to an elevated body temperature. While medical attention is often necessary, dietary changes can play a significant role in managing symptoms, speeding up recovery, and supporting overall health during viral fever. Certain foods can provide energy, hydration, and immune-boosting nutrients to help the body combat the infection effectively. Keep reading as we share a list of foods you must have during a viral fever for better health.

10 Foods you should have during a viral fever 1. Coconut water

Coconut water is a natural electrolyte-rich drink that helps maintain hydration and replenish lost minerals due to fever-induced sweating. Its anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe the body.

2. Chicken soup

A classic remedy, chicken soup is easy to digest and provides protein to help repair tissues and boost immunity. The warm broth also relieves throat irritation and congestion.

3. Citrus fruits

Rich in vitamin C, citrus fruits help strengthen the immune system and reduce the severity of infections. They also promote hydration and soothe a sore throat.

4. Ginger tea

Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Drinking ginger tea can help alleviate nausea, boost circulation, and support the immune response.

5. Bananas

Soft and easy to digest, bananas provide energy and essential nutrients like potassium, which help maintain electrolyte balance and reduce muscle cramps caused by fever.

6. Turmeric milk

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. When mixed with warm milk, it helps soothe the throat and boost immunity.

7. Rice porridge

A light and easily digestible meal, rice porridge provides carbohydrates for energy while being gentle on the stomach. Adding a pinch of salt and a dash of lemon juice enhances its nutritional value.

8. Vegetable broth

A nutrient-dense option, vegetable broth hydrates and replenishes lost minerals while being easy on the digestive system. It also provides vitamins and antioxidants to fight infection.

9. Honey

Known for its antimicrobial properties, honey soothes sore throats and suppresses coughing. Adding it to warm water or herbal teas enhances its benefits.

10. Yogurt

Probiotic-rich yogurt promotes gut health, which is crucial as the majority of the immune system is based in the gut. It also provides protein and calcium to support recovery.

Including these foods during a viral fever ensures adequate nutrition, supports the immune system, and accelerates recovery. Additionally, staying hydrated and resting adequately is essential for full recuperation.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

What Is Lassa Fever? The Deadly Signs And Symptoms To Know

An Iowa resident died after contracting a suspected case of Lassa fever earlier this week. The patient, who returned to the US from West Africa, earlier this month, was hospitalized in isolation at the University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center in Iowa City, and died Tuesday afternoon.Here's everything you need to know about Lassa fever, how it spreads, symptoms, and the treatment.

What is Lassa fever?

(Pic courtesy: iStock)

Lassa fever is an acute viral haemorrhagic illness caused by the Lassa virus. This viral illness is spread by a rat (Mastomys natalensis) found in parts of West Africa.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Lassa fever can be deadly. This viral illness is known to be endemic in Benin, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Nigeria, but probably exists in other West African countries as well.The first case of Lassa fever was documented in 1969. This illness gets its name after the town in Nigeria, where the initial cased occured.

Symptoms

(Pic courtesy: iStock)

According to CDC, about 8 in 10 people who are infected have mild symptoms and are not diagnosed. The mild symptoms include fever, feeling tired and week, and headache.The serious symptoms include bleeding, difficulty breathing, vomiting, facial swelling, pain in the chest, back, and abdomen, and shock. The incubation period of Lassa fever ranges from 2–21 days. The symptoms start to show anywhere between 1 to 3 weeks after being infected.The complications of contracting the viral illness include hearing loss, and high risk (up to 95%) of miscarriage in pregnant women.

How it spreads?

(Pic courtesy: iStock)

Lassa fever is spread by the Mastomys rats, and humans become infected through exposure to food or household items contaminated with urine or faeces of the infected rats. It also spreads by touching contaminated objects, eating food that has the virus, getting the virus in open cuts or sores, eating rodents, and breathing in air that has infected urine or droppings.

How to prevent? As Lassa fever can be deadly, taking necessary precautions is the way forward. It would be a good idea to keep away from the rats if you are going to West Africa. Store food in rat-proof containers and keep the home clean. Avoid eating the rates.

Treatment According to WHO, there is no licensed vaccine for Lassa fever currently, but several potential vaccines are in development.(Pic courtesy: iStock)

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