Cold, cough, mild fever and body ache can be common problems during change in weather. For this reason, many people consider these symptoms to be the effect of changing weather and start treating them at home. But if the fever suddenly increases and is accompanied by severe body ache, headache, pain behind the eyes, loss of appetite or unusual weakness, then it should be taken seriously. Such symptoms can also be seen in dengue. However, dengue cannot be confirmed on the basis of symptoms alone, because similar problems are seen in many other viral diseases also.
If fever persists for more than two-three days, consult a doctor.
If the fever persists for more than two or three days, increases instead of decreasing or new symptoms start appearing along with it, a doctor should be contacted. According to the patient's condition, the doctor may advise to get a blood test done. To diagnose dengue, NS1 antigen test can be done in the early stages of the disease and antibody test in the later stages. Apart from this, the number of platelets and the status of water in the body are also monitored.
Do not let there be lack of water in the body
It is very important to keep the body adequately hydrated during suspected or infected dengue. The patient should take adequate fluids as per the doctor's advice. Apart from plain water, ORS, coconut water and other suitable fluids can also be taken. This helps in maintaining the balance of water and electrolytes in the body. It is also important to take adequate rest, because during fever the body may feel weaker than usual.
Taking pain medication on your own can be costly.
In case of fever and body ache, people often take painkillers without consulting the doctor. This should be avoided in case of suspicion of dengue. Especially medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen should not be taken without medical advice, because the risk of bleeding in dengue can increase. To reduce fever, it is better to take Paracetamol as per doctor's advice and in appropriate quantity.
Serious signs like bleeding and stomach pain
If the patient starts bleeding from the nose or gums, has continuous vomiting, severe stomach pain, difficulty in breathing, or sudden extreme weakness and restlessness, then medical help should be sought immediately. Excessive sleepiness, dizziness or sudden deterioration in the patient's condition can also be warning signs. It is not advisable to wait at home in such cases.
Caution is necessary even after the fever subsides
In dengue, mere persistence of fever is not a matter of concern. In some patients, complications may occur even after the fever subsides. Therefore, one should not be careless immediately after the temperature becomes normal. If the doctor has given re-examination, monitoring of platelets or other medical advice, it is important to follow it.
Timely examination and doctor's advice are most important
Not every fever that occurs during the changing season is dengue, but it is not right to ignore body ache and other unusual symptoms along with high fever. If the symptoms persist or the patient's condition starts worsening, contact the doctor in time. If necessary, getting tested can help in identification of the disease and proper treatment.