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What to do when itching occurs in dengue patient?
In the context of dengue fever, the appearance of itching, particularly after 4-5 days of illness, can indeed be interpreted as a sign of recovery for some patients. Here's a more detailed explanation:
▎Phases of Dengue Fever
1. Febrile Phase: This phase lasts for about 2-7 days and is characterized by high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and sometimes a rash. During this phase, patients are at risk for complications such as hemorrhagic manifestations.
2. Critical Phase: This phase can occur around days 3 to 7 after the onset of fever. It is during this time that patients may experience a drop in platelet counts and an increased risk of severe complications. Close monitoring is essential.
3. Recovery Phase: After the critical phase, if the patient is recovering, they may start to feel better. This phase usually begins around days 6 to 10 after the onset of fever.
▎Itching as a Positive Sign
- Immune Response: The itching may be associated with the body’s immune response as it begins to clear the virus. As the immune system ramps up its activity to fight off the infection, various symptoms, including rashes and itching, may emerge.
- Rash Development: During the recovery phase, some patients may develop a rash that can be itchy. The presence of this rash might indicate that the body is healing and that the acute phase of the infection is resolving.
- Return of Normal Function: As the body recovers, inflammation decreases, and symptoms like itching may indicate that normal skin function is returning.
▎Important Considerations
While itching can be a sign of recovery, it’s crucial to monitor other symptoms:
- Hydration: Ensure adequate fluid intake during recovery.
- Platelet Counts: Continue to monitor platelet levels, as they can drop significantly during dengue.
- Watch for Warning Signs: If there are signs of severe bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, or any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
▎Conclusion
While itching after several days of dengue fever can suggest that a patient is moving into the recovery phase, it’s important to remain vigilant and consult healthcare professionals for proper management and follow-up care. Each case can vary significantly, and individual monitoring is essential for a safe recovery.
Myself DR ATP
MD physician
@FactDoc
