Similia Homoeo LaboratoryBlog Post

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection caused by the dengue virus, which is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. Homoepathy have been coming forward with various remedies depending on the symptoms suffered by patients.

Prevalence in India 

Dengue fever is relatively common in India, and the country experiences regular outbreaks of the disease. India has a high burden of dengue cases, and the incidence can vary from year to year and across different regions within the country.

Reasons for high rate of Dengue cases in India 

Endemicity: Dengue fever is considered endemic in India, meaning that the disease is present and occurs regularly within the country.

Geographical Distribution: Dengue cases are reported throughout India, with varying intensity in different regions. The disease is more common in urban and semi-urban areas where suitable breeding sites for mosquitoes exist and where there is a higher population density.

Seasonal Variation: Dengue fever in India typically shows a seasonal pattern, with an increase in cases during and following the monsoon season (June to October). The warm and humid climate during this period provides favorable conditions for mosquito breeding.

Outbreaks: India experiences periodic outbreaks of dengue fever, particularly during years with higher mosquito populations and viral activity. These outbreaks can lead to a significant increase in the number of reported cases, strain healthcare resources, and impact public health.

Reporting and Surveillance: It is important to note that the actual number of dengue cases in India may be underreported due to various factors, including limited access to healthcare, lack of diagnostic facilities, and challenges in disease surveillance systems.

Government Initiatives: The Indian government, along with various health agencies and organizations, is actively involved in dengue prevention and control efforts. These initiatives focus on vector control, public awareness campaigns, improving healthcare infrastructure, and strengthening surveillance systems.

Causative Agent: Dengue fever is caused by any one of four closely related serotypes of the dengue virus, known as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. These viruses belong to the Flaviviridae family.

Transmission:  The primary mode of transmission is the bite of infected female Aedes mosquitoes. These mosquitoes are most active during the day, especially around dawn and dusk. Dengue cannot be spread directly from person to person.

Mosquito vector: The primary vector responsible for transmitting dengue fever is the Aedes aegypti mosquito, although other Aedes species such as Aedes albopictus can also transmit the virus. These mosquitoes become infected with the dengue virus when they bite a person who has a dengue infection.

Infected human host: The dengue virus can be present in the blood of an infected human during the acute phase of the illness, which lasts for about 2-7 days. When a mosquito bites an infected person, it ingests the virus along with the blood.

Virus replication: Inside the mosquito's body, the dengue virus replicates and multiplies. It primarily infects the mosquito's midgut.

Virus dissemination: After a period of about 8-12 days, the virus spreads from the mosquito's midgut to other tissues, including the salivary glands. Once the virus reaches the salivary glands, the mosquito becomes capable of transmitting the virus to a new host.

Transmission to a new host: When an infected mosquito bites a human, it injects saliva containing the dengue virus into the person's bloodstream. The virus then replicates in the human's body and causes infection.

Symptoms               

 Dengue fever can cause a wide range of symptoms, which can vary in severity from mild to severe. The symptoms typically appear 4-10 days after a person is bitten by an infected mosquito. They may include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, skin rash, and mild bleeding (such as nosebleeds or gum bleeding).

Here are the common symptoms of dengue fever which can be treated with homeopathic medicine.

High fever: Sudden onset of a high-grade fever, often exceeding 104°F (40°C). The fever is usually accompanied by chills and can last for 2-7 days.Belladonna is very effective for high feverish state. 

Severe headache: Intense headache, usually located behind the eyes or in the frontal area. The headache can be debilitating and may worsen with eye movements.

Pain behind the eyes: Eye pain, particularly when moving the eyes.

Joint and muscle pain: Severe joint and muscle pain, also known as myalgia and arthralgia, respectively. This pain is often described as aching and can affect multiple joints and muscles throughout the body.

Rash: Appearance of a rash on the skin, typically 2-5 days after the onset of fever. The rash may be maculopapular (flat, reddened spots) or petechial (small, red or purple spots), and it usually starts on the limbs and spreads to the trunk.

Fatigue: Profound fatigue and weakness, which can persist for several weeks even after the fever resolves.

Nausea and vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite are common symptoms of dengue fever. These symptoms can contribute to dehydration, especially if the person is unable to tolerate oral fluids.

Mild bleeding manifestations: Some individuals with dengue fever may experience mild bleeding, such as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or easy bruising.

In severe cases of dengue fever, a potentially life-threatening condition called dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS) can occur. These conditions involve plasma leakage, bleeding, and organ impairment. Warning signs of severe dengue include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, difficulty breathing, restlessness, and presence of blood in vomit, urine, or stool. Severe dengue requires immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis: The diagnosis of dengue involves a combination of clinical evaluation, medical history, and laboratory tests. Here are the common methods used for diagnosing dengue:

Clinical evaluation: A healthcare provider will assess your symptoms, medical history, and conduct a physical examination. They will look for characteristic signs and symptoms of dengue fever, such as high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, rash, and other clinical manifestations.

Blood tests: Laboratory tests are crucial for confirming the diagnosis of dengue fever. The two commonly used blood tests for dengue are:

a. Dengue antigen tests: These tests detect the presence of viral antigens (proteins) or genetic material (RNA) of the dengue virus in the blood. The NS1 antigen test is a common example. It is most effective during the early phase of the illness, typically within the first few days of symptom onset.

b. Antibody tests: These tests detect the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to dengue infection. There are two types of antibodies that are tested for dengue: IgM (immunoglobulin M) and IgG (immunoglobulin G). IgM antibodies are usually detectable within 3-5 days after symptom onset and can indicate a recent dengue infection. IgG antibodies, on the other hand, take longer to develop and are more useful for determining past infections or previous exposure to dengue.

In some cases, both antigen and antibody tests may be performed to increase the accuracy of the diagnosis.

Prevention of Dengue in India through Homeopathy 

                Preventive measures focus on reducing mosquito populations and avoiding mosquito bites. Homeopathic medicine are a great alternative for preventing Dengue. This includes eliminating stagnant water sources where mosquitoes breed, using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing (long sleeves, pants), and using bed nets. Community-wide efforts to control mosquito populations are also important

                  Managing dengue requires a comprehensive approach that involves both individual and community-level strategies. Here are some general management measures for dengue:

Prevention of Mosquito Breeding: Eliminate mosquito breeding sites by emptying, cleaning, or covering containers that can hold water. Mosquitoes that transmit dengue breed in stagnant water, so it's important to remove any standing water around homes and communities.

Personal Protection: Use mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when outdoors. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to reduce exposure to mosquito bites, especially during peak mosquito activity periods (dawn and dusk).

Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Educate healthcare professionals and communities about the signs and symptoms of dengue. Early diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management. Prompt medical consultation is necessary if dengue is suspected, as severe cases may require hospitalization.

Supportive Care: There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue. Management mainly involves providing supportive care to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. This includes rest, maintaining hydration through oral rehydration solutions 

Monitoring and Surveillance: Establish a surveillance system to monitor the occurrence and spread of dengue cases. This enables early detection of outbreaks and facilitates targeted interventions.

Vector Control: Implement vector control measures such as indoor residual spraying of insecticides, use of larvicides in water storage containers, and deployment of mosquito traps. Community participation is crucial for the success of vector control efforts.

Health Education: Raise awareness about dengue prevention and control measures in communities. Provide information on the importance of personal protection, proper waste management, and environmental sanitation to reduce mosquito breeding sites.

Collaboration and Coordination: Foster collaboration among health authorities, local government agencies, community organizations, and other stakeholders involved in dengue control. This coordination helps ensure a comprehensive and integrated approach to dengue management.

It's important to note that these are general management measures, and specific recommendations may vary depending on the dengue situation in a particular region. Local health authorities and guidelines should be consulted for the most up-to-date and relevant information on dengue management.

Complications: In some cases, dengue fever can progress to a severe form known as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS). These conditions are characterized by plasma leakage, bleeding, organ failure, and can be life-threatening. Timely medical care and close monitoring are crucial in severe cases

Homeopathic remedies for Dengue from Similia India

Eupatorium Perfoliatum mother tincture 

Eupatorium Perfoliatum for dengue fever with bone breaking pains .Eupatorium perfoliatum, commonly known as "boneset" or "thoroughwort," has been suggested as a potential remedy for dengue fever.

Rhus Tox :  Homeopathic remedy for pains relieved by motion.Rhus tox is used to treat a variety of conditions and symptoms, including joint and muscle pain, stiffness, and inflammation. 

Gelsemium: Gelsemium is commonly used for flu-like conditions where the individual experiences heavy fatigue, weakness, headache, and aching throughout the body. There may be a lack of thirst, chills, and a desire to be left alone.Gelsemium is indicated for headaches that are usually centered at the back of the head or neck. The pain may extend to the forehead, and it is often accompanied by dizziness, blurred vision, and a heavy, dull sensation.

Phosphorus: Homeopathic medicine for haemorrhagic dengue fever.disorganizes the blood, causing fatty degeneration of blood vessels and every tissue and organ of the body and thus gives rise to hæmorrhages,

Belladonna : A high feverish state,neuralgic pains that come and go suddenly .Belladonna stands for violence of attack and suddenness of onset.Burning, pungent, steaming, heat. Feet icy cold. Superficial blood-vessels, distended. Perspiration dry only on head. No thirst with fever.

Carica Papaya: Used in relieving rheumatic and arthritic pains.Strengthens the immune system and helps the body fight off infections.Best homeopathic remedy for improving platelet count It is a multipurpose health tonic which is used in treatment of various health issues such as urinary issues ,intestinal worms and enlargement of liver.

Dengue can life threatening and absence of adequate treatment can lead to complications. Along with Homeopathic remedies and special care to the patient we can easily handle the situation. 

Do consult a homeopathic doctor before treating yourselves

Blog prepared by Dr Noreen Naushad, Manufacturing Chemist, Similia Homoeo Laboratory