New Delhi . Amid changes in weather and increasing cases of infection, people's concern about dengue and H1N1 swine flu increases. Both the diseases can cause problems like high fever, headache and body ache, hence it may be difficult to understand the difference between them in the initial stage. However, their causes, mode of spread and some major symptoms are different.
Dengue is a viral disease, which is spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. In contrast, H1N1 is an infection caused by influenza virus, which can spread when an infected person coughs, sneezes or comes in contact with respiratory droplets. This is why the methods of protection from both are different.
In dengue, symptoms like sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, pain in muscles and joints, nausea, vomiting, weakness and skin rash can usually be seen. Swelling of glands may also occur in some patients. After infection, its symptoms usually appear within four to ten days.
Ignoring some warning signs during dengue can prove serious. If symptoms like severe stomach pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from nose or gums, rapid breathing, extreme weakness or bloody vomit or stool are seen after high fever, it is important to seek immediate medical help.
At the same time, the symptoms of H1N1 flu sometimes appear like normal influenza. It may cause sudden fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, chills, pain in muscles and joints, runny nose and extreme fatigue. In some cases, complaints of vomiting or diarrhea may also be seen. In case of severe infection, pneumonia and severe breathing problems can occur.
Due to similarity in the symptoms of both the diseases, it is not appropriate to decide the disease on the basis of symptoms alone. The doctor can recommend tests according to the patient's condition, symptoms and needs. Dengue may require a blood test to confirm it, while flu may be diagnosed through medical evaluation or special testing, depending on the circumstances.
One of the most important measures to prevent dengue is not to allow water to accumulate in and around the house. Water accumulated in coolers, pots, tires and other places should be cleaned regularly. To avoid mosquitoes during the day, wearing clothes covering the entire body and using anti-mosquito measures can also be useful.
To prevent H1N1, it is important to wash hands regularly, cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and maintain distance from other people when sick. It may also be helpful to exercise caution in crowded places and consider getting flu vaccination as per medical advice.
In this way, both dengue and swine flu may have similar symptoms like fever and body ache, but the medium of infection is different. In case of severe or persistent symptoms, instead of taking self-medication, it is safe to consult a doctor and get tested if necessary.