Patient Story: Navigating Dengue – Manohar’s Journey and Vital Tips for Prevention
Meet Manohar, a 35-year-old teacher from Anna Nagar, who thought he had just a bad flu. However, when his fever soared and was accompanied by severe joint pain and a rash, he knew it was something more serious. He was at SMF, and doctors diagnosed him with dengue fever, a common yet potentially severe illness spread by mosquitoes.
Understanding Dengue
Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted through Aedes mosquito bites, particularly prevalent in tropical regions like ours. Symptoms, appearing 4-10 days after a bite, include high fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, nausea, and skin rash.
Manohar’s Hospital Journey
Manohar was admitted to the hospital, where his treatment followed scientific guidelines and absolute care
1. Monitoring: Regular monitoring of his vital signs and fluid balance.
2. Hydration: He received intravenous (IV) fluids to stay hydrated, which is crucial in dengue management.
3. Pain Management: Medications were given to reduce his fever and alleviate joint pain.
4. Investigation: He was tested for other fevers, too, as they may co-exist. Important parameters like platelet counts were constantly monitored.
5. Observation for Complications:Doctors kept a close eye for any signs of severe dengue, which can involve bleeding or severe abdominal pain.
Thankfully, Manohar recovered fully after a week of hospital care.
Prevention Strategies:
1. Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites:
1) Regularly empty containers that collect water in your surroundings.
2) Keep water storage containers covered.
2. Personal Protection:
1) Use mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing like long sleeves and pants.
2) Install mosquito nets or screens in living and sleeping areas.
3. Community Efforts:
1) Participate in local drives to clean up areas where mosquitoes might breed
2) Share knowledge about dengue prevention with neighbors and friends.
4. Travel Carefully:
1) Be extra cautious in regions known for dengue and follow all the above precautions.
Conclusion
Manohar’s experience with dengue underscores the importance of both prevention and timely medical care. By being vigilant and proactive, we can protect ourselves and our communities from this disease. Remember, when it comes to dengue, prevention is indeed the best cure.
Written by
Dr Sindhuja Giritharan
She is a general physician and a diabetologist who works at SMF.
Dr Sindhuja Giritharan
She is a general physician and a diabetologist who works at SMF.
Sundaram Medical Foundation has seen a sharp rise in dengue fever presentation in the outpatient clinic and admissions as well in this monsoon. Reach out for timely advice and appropriate management exclusive to SMF, a friendly neighbourhood community hospital.
