By Contributing Writer
Dengue fever is an infectious, increasingly prevalent disease of the tropics and subtropics. While there is no particular medication formulated specifically to treat dengue fever, there are a number of measures that can be taken to treat a person suffering from this disease.
Symptoms
Consult with a physician as soon as you notice that you are suffering from the symptoms of dengue fever. According to the National Travel Health Network and Care Center (NTHNCC), these symptoms include high fever, severe headaches, myalgia, nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms include aching joints, backache, skin rash and eye pain.
Supportive Nursing Care
The NTHNCC points out that there is not antiviral treatment for the disease, but recommends supportive nursing care for the patient, particularly in the management of fever.
Fluid Balance
The World Health Organization stresses the necessity for the patient to consume fluids, so as to prevent a reduction in his circulating fluid volume. (See "Additional Resources," below).
Transfusions
Directors of Health Promotion & Education recommend transfusions to help control bleeding in the patient. Electrolyte replacement will need to be done intravenously to sustain sufficient blood pressure.
Analgesics
Help relieve the aches and pains associated with the disease by providing the patient with pain killers (analgesics).
Rest
The patient should get plenty of bed rest to allow the body to conserve energy to fight the disease.
Resources
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