Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness that affects millions of people worldwide each year. While most cases of dengue are mild and self-limiting, a more severe form known as “severe dengue” or “dengue hemorrhagic fever” can lead to life-threatening complications. In this article, we will explore the key differences between dengue and severe dengue.
Dengue Fever:
Cause: Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, particularly Aedes aegypti.
Symptoms: Common symptoms of dengue fever include:
- High fever
- Severe headache
- Joint and muscle pain
- Rash
- Mild bleeding from the nose or gums
- Fatigue
- Mild to moderate nausea and vomiting
Duration: Dengue fever typically lasts for about 2 to 7 days.
Treatment: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever. Treatment focuses on supportive care, including rest, hydration, and pain relief medications.
Severe Dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever):
Cause: Severe dengue occurs when a person who has had a previous dengue infection is infected with a different dengue virus serotype. It can also affect individuals with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms: Severe dengue symptoms may include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from the nose or gums
- Blood in urine, stools, or vomit
- Rapid breathing
- Cold or clammy skin
- Fatigue or restlessness
Duration: Severe dengue can develop within a few days of the onset of dengue fever and progress rapidly if left untreated.
Treatment: Severe dengue requires immediate medical attention. Hospitalization and intensive care may be necessary to manage complications such as shock and organ failure. Intravenous fluids and blood transfusions may be required.
Prevention:
Preventing dengue and severe dengue primarily involves controlling mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites. Some preventive measures include:
- Using mosquito repellents
- Wearing long-sleeved clothing and pants
- Installing screens on windows and doors
- Eliminating mosquito breeding sites, such as standing water in containers
- Vaccination (where available)
Conclusion:
Understanding the difference between dengue fever and severe dengue is crucial for early detection and appropriate medical care. While dengue fever is usually mild and self-limiting, severe dengue can lead to life-threatening complications. If you or someone you know experiences severe symptoms associated with dengue, seek immediate medical attention to improve the chances of a full recovery.
