About the Management of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever
Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a serious viral disease that is generally associated with severe febrile symptoms (extremely high fevers). With appropriate medical care, the mortality rate of dengue fever is relatively low. It is a disease that can be managed fairly well with simple treatment. Without treatment, however, the mortality rate for those infected with dengue hemorrhagic fever is greatly increased.
Types
There are actually several different types of dengue hemorrhagic fever. All manifestations of it are caused by one of four related viruses. These viruses all belong to the Flaviviridae family. In most instances, diagnosis of dengue hemorrhagic fever doesn't include determination of which of the four viruses is responsible for the infection. Treatment and management of dengue is identical regardless of the exact type of virus that is responsible.
Time Frame
Management and treatment of dengue fever should be undertaken as soon as a diagnosis is made. There is a direct correlation between immediate medical treatment and a positive outcome. Waiting even a small amount of time to seek medical treatment can be a fatal mistake and shouldn't be considered. Likewise, those who are exhibiting potential symptoms of dengue hemorrhagic fever should be seen by a medical expert immediately for diagnosis.
Identification
Management of dengue hemorrhagic fever really only takes the form of symptomatic treatment. Because dengue is caused by a virus, antibiotics and other such medications aren't effective in fighting it. There is currently no real treatment that directly affects the virus itself. Instead, treatment generally focuses on relieving the symptoms that are caused by the infection. As with other viral infections, such as influenza, bed rest and increased fluid intake are crucial. Blood transfusions can also be necessary because of the increased bleeding that is often found in dengue patients. During the first 5 to 7 days, the infection is at its worst, and it is very important that the patient's vital signs be constantly monitored and that the patient remain hospitalized.
Considerations
Of course, the most effective way of managing dengue hemorrhagic fever is to prevent it in the first place. There is no viable dengue fever vaccine at the present time, but a great deal of work is being done toward that end, and vaccines are in development. Dengue is spread, like malaria, by mosquitoes. Proper mosquito management in tropical climates, particularly in urban areas, is one method of preventing dengue outbreaks from occurring in the first place.
Warning
Some medications should be absolutely avoided by those who have dengue hemorrhagic fever or who may be infected with it. The main drugs to avoid are NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and aspirin, along with any other medication that has a thinning effect on the blood or can cause increased risk of bleeding. Bleeding is already a huge risk factor for those suffering from dengue fever, and medications that exacerbate this risk should be avoided at all costs.
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