In tropical regions like Bali, dengue fever is a significant health concern. A recent surge in global travel, increasing temperatures, high rainfall and changing distribution of mosquitos, has translated to an increase in dengue cases in Bali.
In fact, Bali has reported an increase of 175% in dengue fever cases in Bali in 2024, compared to last year.
With this increase in dengue fever diagnosis, it’s important to understand your risk, and remain aware for early recognition and treatment if you become unwell. Understanding the warning signs can lead to timely medical intervention and better outcomes for you and your family, should you contract the disease while on holiday or while living in Bali.
So let’s dive into what causes dengue fever, including the signs of infection that you shouldn’t ignore. Knowing the warning signs can help you get the right treatment quickly, and get back to your normal self!
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection common in tropical and subtropical climates. It is prevalent in semi-urban areas across South East Asia including Bali.
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted by the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. The disease typically manifests with a sudden onset of fever and has a biphasic nature, which means that symptoms may subside and then return.
How Dengue is Transmitted
Dengue is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, which are active during the daytime, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon. These mosquitoes breed in standing water found in containers such as buckets, flower pots, and discarded tires.
To prevent bites, use mosquito repellents, wear long sleeves, use mosquito nets, and don’t let stagnant water pool around your villa.
Dengue and Its Complications
Dengue has an incubation period of 3-14 days, after which headache, fever, muscle and joint pain may cause patients to seek medical attention.
It can lead to severe complications if not treated promptly. These include Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF), which is characterized by bleeding, blood plasma leakage, and low platelet count, and Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), which can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
The risk of severe dengue increases with subsequent infections, so it’s important to stay vigilant if you or your family have had it before.
7 Dengue Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
High Fever
A sudden, high fever is often the first sign of dengue. Keep track of your temperature and see a doctor if it stays high or comes with other symptoms. It is crucial to monitor fever and seek medical advice if it persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.
Severe Headache
An intense headache, especially behind the eyes, is common with dengue. The pain can be debilitating and is a key indicator of the infection.
Pain Behind the Eyes
Pain behind the eyes is a distinctive dengue symptom. It helps differentiate dengue from other viral infections.
Joint and Muscle Pain
Severe muscle and joint pain, known as "breakbone fever," is another hallmark of dengue. This pain can be severe enough to affect daily activities.
Nausea and Vomiting
Feeling nauseous and vomiting are common with dengue fever. They can lead to dehydration, which is particularly dangerous in dengue patients.
Skin Rash
A skin rash may develop in the early stages or later in the illness. It often appears as red spots on the skin and can be itchy.
Fatigue and Weakness
Profound fatigue and general weakness are typical during the acute phase of dengue and may persist during recovery, making rest and supportive care essential.
Treatment for Dengue Fever
There is no specific treatment or vaccine for dengue fever, although both conventional medicine and functional medicine approaches can, when used in harmony and under medical supervision, can reduce symptoms and promote a faster recovery.
Key components of a dengue treatment plan include:
Hydration: Dengue fever often leads to dehydration due to fever, sweating, and reduced fluid intake. So adequate rest and fluid intake are crucial. Rehydration solutions delivered through an IV drip can help maintain electrolyte balance.
Try to ensure frequent intake of electrolyte-rich fluids such as oral rehydration solutions, coconut water, and nutrient-filled IV drips.
Pain Relief: For pain and discomfort, natural remedies like turmeric (curcumin) or ginger can be recommended for their anti-inflammatory properties. Acetaminophen may also be considered under medical guidance for pain relief and fever reduction.
Immune Support: Boosting immune function with vitamin C, zinc, and probiotics may aid recovery. These nutrients support immune response and gut health, which can be compromised during dengue fever.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring of symptoms and blood counts is crucial, especially for signs of severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome). Seek immediate medical attention should be sought if your symptoms worsen.
Avoid NSAIDs and Aspirin: Due to the risk of bleeding associated with dengue fever, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and aspirin should be avoided unless specifically prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Functional Medicine Approaches to Treat Dengue Fever in Bali
Functional medicine focuses on helping support the body through its recovery process. Treatment for dengue focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting your body while it fights the virus.
Nutritional Support: Providing nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest can aid recovery, such as papaya juice, andrographis (which also offers protective effects against the dengue virus), bone broth and lots of bitter herbs rich in protein and essential nutrients.
Papaya in particular has been used for centuries as a treatment for dengue by native peoples of dengue-prone regions. Different parts of the papaya plants such as leaves, roots, stems, and flowers are used in different formulations—decoction, infusion and leaf juice—due to their ability to boost platelet count.
Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc should also factor into your supplementation regime should your diet not be adequate.
Fever Management: To alleviate fever and discomfort, use cool compresses, tepid sponge baths, or herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint for their cooling effects.
Post-Recovery Care: After recovery, focusing on rebuilding strength and replenishing nutrient stores through a balanced diet and gradual return to physical activities is important.
It's important to note that while these approaches can complement conventional medical care, anyone suspected of having dengue fever should seek immediate medical attention for diagnosis and monitoring, especially if severe symptoms develop.
The Role of IV Drips in Dengue Recovery
IV drips play a vital role in managing dehydration and maintaining electrolyte balance in dengue patients. They provide essential fluids and nutrients, supporting the body's recovery process.
Administering Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and zinc via intravenous (IV) therapy can significantly boost the immune system by ensuring rapid and efficient absorption. Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, enhances the production and function of white blood cells, which are critical in fighting infections.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in modulating the immune response, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the pathogen-fighting effects of monocytes and macrophages. Zinc, an essential mineral, is vital for the proper functioning of immune cells and the production of antibodies.
IV administration of these nutrients bypasses the digestive system, allowing for higher bioavailability and immediate utilization by the body, which can be particularly beneficial during times of increased immune stress or deficiency.
So what does this mean?
IV therapy can be particularly beneficial for those unable to maintain adequate hydration orally due to nausea and vomiting. It can also deliver important nutrients and minerals back into the body faster and more effectively than oral methods. This is because the nutrients are delivered straight into the bloodstream instead of passing through the stomach where they may be malabsorbed.
Dengue fever is serious - stay aware of your risk.
Recognizing the warning signs of dengue fever and seeking timely medical care can significantly improve a patient’s severity of symptoms, and positively influence recovery time.
Monitoring symptoms closely and understanding when to seek help is crucial. If you suspect you or a loved one may be infected, don’t hesitate to seek medical assistance and diagnosis.
Want to know more?
For more information on dengue treatment and to enquire about a dengue treatment support protocol, drop us a message on our WhatsApp number +62 812-3752-1662.
We’re here to support you on your recovery journey.
Comentarios