Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the Dengue virus (DENV), which is transmitted primarily by the Aedes aegypti mosquito. It is common in tropical and subtropical regions and can range from a mild flu-like illness to a severe, life-threatening condition known as severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Causes of Dengue Fever
1. Virus Transmission
- Dengue is caused by one of the four serotypes of the Dengue virus (DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, DENV-4).
- The Aedes mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person already carrying the virus and subsequently transmits it to others.
2. Risk Factors
- Living in or traveling to endemic areas.
- Lack of mosquito control measures.
- Previous infection with a different dengue serotype increases the risk of severe dengue upon reinfection.
Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Mild Dengue Fever:
- High fever (104°F or more).
- Severe headache and retro-orbital (behind the eyes) pain.
- Muscle and joint pain (nicknamed "breakbone fever").
- Rash (usually appears 2–5 days after fever onset).
- Nausea, vomiting, and fatigue.
Severe Dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever/Dengue Shock Syndrome):
- Persistent abdominal pain.
- Rapid breathing and fatigue.
- Bleeding gums or nosebleeds.
- Blood in vomit, stool, or urine.
- Sudden drop in blood pressure leading to shock.
Organ Damage
- Liver damage, which can lead to hepatitis or liver failure.
- Damage to the heart, brain, or kidneys in extreme cases.
Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS):
- A sudden drop in blood pressure causing organ failure and death if untreated.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Dengue Fever
In Ayurveda, dengue fever can be correlated with Vishama Jwara (irregular fever) or Dandaka Jwara, caused by imbalances in Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), primarily Pitta and Vata. It is considered to occur due to toxins (Ama) in the body and external factors like mosquito bites, which disturb the body's natural immunity (Ojas).
- Ama (Toxins): Weakens digestion and immunity.
- Pitta Imbalance: Causes high fever, rash, and bleeding tendencies.
- Vata Imbalance: Leads to body pain, fatigue, and headaches.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Dengue Fever
Dietary Recommendations (Ahara):
- Consume light, easily digestible foods such as rice gruel (kanji), vegetable soups, and fresh fruits.
- Stay hydrated with coconut water, lime juice, and herbal teas (e.g., tulsi and ginger).
- Avoid spicy, fried, or heavy foods that aggravate Pitta and Ama.
Lifestyle Modifications (Dinacharya):
- Get adequate rest and avoid physical exertion.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites using repellents, nets, and protective clothing.
- Practice meditation and pranayama to strengthen immunity.
Panchakarma Therapies
Mild Dengue Fever:
- Virechana (Purgation Therapy): Eliminates Pitta dosha from the system.
- Rakta Mokshana (Bloodletting): Detoxifies blood under expert supervision.
Immunity Boosters (Rasayana):
- Chyawanprash: Rejuvenates the immune system.
- Ashwagandha: Reduces stress and supports recovery.
Herbal Medicines
Papaya Leaf Extract:
Boosts platelet count and aids recovery.
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Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia):
Enhances immunity and reduces fever.
Tulsi (Holy Basil):
Antiviral properties help combat the dengue virus.
Guduchi Satva:
Balances Pitta and detoxifies the blood.
Neem (Azadirachta indica):
Purifies blood and reduces inflammation.
Punarnava (Boerhavia diffusa):
Helps manage edema and restores normal kidney function.
