Every monsoon, dengue cases rise across Gujarat, and with them comes fear. Is dengue dangerous? Does a falling platelet count mean an emergency? Dr. Dipak Viradia, Chest Physician & Intensivist, explains when dengue is mild, when it becomes serious, and what families should watch for.

Most dengue cases are mild. Dengue is a viral infection spread by the bite of the Aedes mosquito, which bites mainly during the day. Most patients have high fever, severe body ache and joint pain, headache, pain behind the eyes, weakness and sometimes a rash. With rest, fluids and proper care, most people recover within a week.

But dengue can become serious. In a small number of patients, dengue progresses to severe dengue, where fluid leaks out of the blood vessels, leading to dehydration, bleeding, low blood pressure and shock. This can be life-threatening and needs hospital or ICU care.

The most dangerous phase comes when the fever goes down. Many families relax once the fever settles, usually around day 3 to 7. This is exactly when complications are most likely to appear, so close monitoring is needed during this period.

Warning signs that need immediate hospital care:

• Severe stomach pain or repeated vomiting
• Bleeding from gums or nose, blood in vomit or stools, or black stools
• Extreme weakness, drowsiness or restlessness
• Fast breathing or breathlessness
• Cold, clammy hands and feet
• Passing very little urine

Platelets are not the only concern. A falling platelet count is common in dengue, but low platelets alone are usually not the main danger, and most patients do not need a platelet transfusion. The bigger risk is fluid leakage and dehydration. Treatment decisions should be based on the doctor’s assessment, not on the platelet number alone.

What to do and what to avoid. Drink plenty of fluids such as water, ORS, coconut water, soups and juices, and rest well. Take only paracetamol for fever and pain. Avoid painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin and diclofenac, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Don’t rely on home remedies in place of medical care.

Prevention. Aedes mosquitoes breed in clean, stagnant water. Empty and clean coolers, flower pots, buckets, old tyres and water containers every week, use mosquito repellents and nets, and wear full-sleeved clothes during the day.

Dr. Dipak Viradia
Chest Physician & Intensivist | Interventional Pulmonologist & ECMO Specialist
Rudrax Chest Clinic, 301, Solaris Royce, Opp. Old RTO, Athwagate, Ring Road, Surat – 395001
Appointment: +91 75676 19985
Website: www.drdipakviradia.com