【Common Diseases】Dengue Fever
A Complete Guide to Dengue Fever Treatment | Hong Kong Editor's In-Depth Compilation
Hello everyone, today I'll share in-depth insights into dengue fever treatment and care. In recent years, during the summer months in Hong Kong, or when traveling to tropical or subtropical regions, there's a good chance you'll hear reports of dengue fever cases. As a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, dengue fever has no specific cure, and treatment primarily focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing complications .
The following content is compiled based on the Hong Kong Department of Health, the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and many medical articles. The editor will use the most popular language to explain it in detail.
1. Principles of dengue fever treatment
Dengue fever is a self-limiting disease , meaning that in most cases, the body's immune system will clear the virus within 1-2 weeks. However, if not treated properly, it can develop into severe dengue fever (dengue hemorrhagic fever/dengue shock syndrome) , which can be life-threatening.
Treatment focuses include:
- Replenish water and electrolytes : prevent dehydration and maintain blood circulation.
- Antipyretic and analgesic : Relieve the discomfort caused by high fever.
- Closely monitor the patient's condition , especially bleeding symptoms and blood pressure changes.
2. The medical community recommends supportive treatment
2.1 Hydration is the most important
People with dengue fever are prone to dehydration due to fever, sweating, vomiting or loss of appetite.
- Oral rehydration : You can use oral rehydration salts (ORS), or diluted juice or clear soup.
- Severe dehydration : The hospital will use intravenous fluids (IV Drip).
Editor’s tip : Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink water; instead, drink water in small sips regularly.
2.2 Safe and effective in reducing fever and relieving pain
- The preferred drug : Paracetamol (Panadol), which can reduce fever, headache, and muscle pain.
- Avoid medications : Aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen), as they may increase the risk of bleeding.
2.3 Monitoring of changes in condition
Doctors will advise patients to:
- Measure blood pressure and body temperature daily.
- Pay attention to warning signs such as bleeding gums, petechiae, black stools, persistent vomiting, and shortness of breath .
- Regular blood tests (platelet, hemoglobin, liver function, etc.).
3. Hong Kong Hospital’s approach
According to the Hong Kong Department of Health and Hospital Authority:
- Patients with mild symptoms : Most can recuperate at home, but the doctor will arrange regular follow-up visits and blood tests.
- Severely ill or high-risk individuals (such as the elderly, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases) will be recommended to be hospitalized for observation.
- The hospital will provide intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, blood transfusions (in case of severe bleeding) , and continuously monitor vital signs.
4. The key to preventing complications
- Seek medical attention early : If infection is suspected (especially if there is a history of travel), seek medical attention immediately.
- Avoid self-medication : especially drugs that may affect blood clotting function.
- Get enough rest : Reduce the burden on your immune system.
- Prevent mosquito transmission : Patients should try to stay in an environment with mosquito nets or air conditioning to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and infecting others.
5. Editor’s Summary
There's no cure for dengue fever, but with early diagnosis, adequate hydration, safe antipyretics and analgesics, and close monitoring, most patients can fully recover. While the mortality rate for severe dengue fever is low, delayed treatment can have serious consequences.
A friendly reminder from the editor : Before traveling, check whether there is a dengue fever outbreak at your destination. Remember to bring mosquito repellent and mosquito patches to reduce the risk of being bitten!
⚠️ Disclaimer <br>This article is for reference only and does not constitute any medical advice. The source is referenced from major medical articles.
