Dengue fever is a serious health concern in Bengaluru, especially during the monsoon season when mosquito populations increase. Understanding how to treat dengue effectively and being aware of the associated costs can help patients make informed decisions. This guide provides essential information about dengue treatment options available in Bengaluru.
What is Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), primarily transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes. There are four serotypes of the dengue virus: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4.
Getting infected with dengue a second time increases your risk of experiencing serious symptoms. If you have already had dengue once, you may be eligible for vaccination, which can help protect you from future infections. It’s important to note that dengue is not contagious between people, except in rare cases where a pregnant person may transmit the virus to their child.
Symptoms are mild during your first infection; however, if you contract a different strain of the dengue virus (DENV) during a subsequent infection, your risk of severe complications significantly rises. Therefore, understanding the risks associated with multiple infections and considering vaccination can be crucial for your health.
Key Points:
- Severity: Secondary infections can lead to severe complications.
- Transmission: Spread by bites from infected mosquitoes.
- Global Impact: Approximately 400 million infections occur worldwide each year.
- Symptoms: Can range from mild flu-like symptoms to severe dengue, which can be life-threatening.
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Recognizing Symptoms of Dengue Fever
Identifying the symptoms of dengue early is crucial for effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
- High Fever: Sudden onset of high fever (up to 104°F or 40°C).
- Severe Headache: Intense pain behind the eyes.
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Often referred to as ‘breakbone fever’ due to severe discomfort.
- Skin Rash: Typically appears a few days after fever onset.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Common gastrointestinal issues.
- Mild Bleeding: Nosebleeds or easy bruising may occur.
Dengue symptoms appear 4 to 10 days after a mosquito bite and can last for 3 to 7 days. About 1 in 20 dengue patients develop severe dengue after the initial symptoms begin to fade.
Important Note:
If you experience these symptoms, especially after mosquito bites, seek medical attention immediately.
How is Dengue Diagnosed?
Dengue fever is diagnosed through a blood test. Doctor will take a blood sample from a vein and send it to a laboratory to check for signs of the dengue virus. This will also help determine which of the four dengue versions you have. Doctor may also use blood tests to check for other viruses that cause similar symptoms.
How is dengue fever treated?
There are no medicines to cure dengue fever. Your doctor will give you advice on how to treat the symptoms and if and when you should go to the emergency room.
How do I treat the symptoms of dengue fever?
Treating the symptoms is the only way to manage dengue fever. Follow your doctor’s recommendations, including the following:
1. Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial in managing dengue. Patients should drink plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solutions (ORS), coconut water, and clear soups. In severe cases, intravenous (IV) fluids may be necessary to prevent dehydration.
2. Pain Relief
Pain and fever can be managed with paracetamol (acetaminophen). Avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprofen as they can increase bleeding risks.
3. Monitoring and Hospitalization
Regular monitoring of vital signs, platelet count, and hematocrit levels is essential. Patients with severe symptoms may require hospitalisation for close observation and treatment.
4. Rest
Adequate rest is vital for recovery. Patients should avoid strenuous activities to allow their bodies to heal properly.
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How can I reduce my risk of dengue?
The two most important ways to protect yourself from dengue are to avoid mosquito bites and to get vaccinated.
Mosquito repellents
- The best way to reduce your risk of dengue is to avoid mosquito bites.
- Use an EPA-approved insect repellent that contains 20-30% DEET or other ingredients known to repel Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
- Cover exposed skin when you are outdoors, especially at night when mosquitoes are more likely to be out.
- Remove standing water (from buckets and barrels, birdhouses, and old tires that may contain rainwater) and fill any depressions where water may collect. Prevent mosquitoes from entering your home by repairing holes in screens and closing windows and doors if possible.
- Use mosquito nets at night in areas where dengue is common.
- If you are pregnant, avoid traveling to areas where dengue is common, if possible. If you are pregnant, avoid traveling to areas where dengue is common, if possible. Otherwise you can wear long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, and using DEET-based repellents, which are safe for pregnant women.
- Always check with CDC before travelling to find out if there is an outbreak in your destination.
Dengue Vaccine
The dengue vaccine (Dengvaxia™) is only recommended if you have previously had dengue fever. It may reduce the risk of severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever) if you are infected with another version of the dengue virus in the future.
Vaccination is not recommended if you have never had dengue before. Because one dengue infection increases the chance of severe illness if you are infected with another version of the virus (through antibody-dependent enhancement), getting vaccinated before your first dengue illness may increase your risk of severe dengue. Doctors will do blood tests to look for signs of previous dengue infection and to see if you have had dengue before getting vaccinated.
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Understanding the Dengue Treatment Cost in Bengaluru
Knowing the potential costs involved in dengue treatment can help you plan better. It can depend on the severity of the infection. Here’s a breakdown:
Outpatient Care Costs
- Consultation Fees: INR 500 – INR 1500 per visit
- Diagnostic Tests:
- NS1 Antigen Test: INR 600 – INR 1500
- IgM and IgG Antibody Tests: INR 600 – INR 1500
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): INR 300 – INR 500
- Medications: INR 200 – INR 1000
Hospitalization Costs
- Room Charges:
- General Ward: INR 2000 – INR 5000 per day
- Private Room: INR 5000 – INR 10,000 per day
- IV Fluids and Medications: INR 1000 – INR 5000 per day
- Monitoring and Nursing Care: INR 1000 – INR 3000 per day
- Intensive Care Unit (ICU): INR 15,000 – INR 30,000 per day
Additional Costs
- Transportation: Costs for ambulance services if needed.
- Follow-up Visits: INR 500 – INR 1500 per visit.
Total Estimated Cost
The total dengue treatment cost in Bengaluru can range from INR 5,000 to over INR 1,00,000 depending on severity and duration of illness.
Disclaimer – The cost of treating dengue can be significantly reduced if you get diagnosed early and are closely monitored. Clinikk can help diagnose, monitor and treat dengue while keeping your financial strain minimal.
Why Choose Clinikk for Your Dengue Treatment?
At Clinikk, we prioritize your health with our comprehensive dengue treatment options:
Experienced Dengue Doctors
Our healthcare professionals have extensive experience in managing dengue cases effectively.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
We are equipped with modern medical technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Patient-Centric Approach
We focus on personalized care tailored to your specific needs.
Affordable Care
Clinikk offers transparent pricing without compromising on quality care.
Evidence-Based Medicine
Our dengue management protocols are grounded in the latest research and clinical guidelines, ensuring you receive the most effective and up-to-date treatment options.
Dengue is a serious health issue in Bengaluru, but it can be successfully controlled with timely diagnosis, effective treatment and preventive measures. Clinikk offers comprehensive dengue treatment with experienced doctors, state-of-the-art facilities and a patient-centric approach. Understanding the treatment process and the costs involved will help you make an informed decision for yourself and your loved ones. Remember, early detection and proper treatment are the key to overcoming dengue fever.
For more information or to book an appointment, please visit our website Clinikk.com. Experience superior medical services with us, your trusted health partner.
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Frequently asked questions
What should I do if I’ve had dengue fever?
If you’ve had dengue fever before, you’re more likely to develop severe symptoms if you get another version of the virus in the future. Consider getting vaccinated and taking extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites, especially if you live in an area where dengue fever is prevalent.
When should I see a doctor?
If you live in or have recently visited an area where dengue fever is prevalent and have symptoms of dengue fever, see a doctor. They will give you advice on how to take care of yourself and if you need further treatment.
Can you get dengue more than once?
Yes. There are at least four versions (strains) of the dengue virus, so it is possible to get dengue more than once. You are usually immune to the strain that first made you sick and cannot get it again. However, you can still get one of the other three strains after that. In fact, multiple exposure to dengue fever increases the chances of severe illness.
How long does dengue last?
The first symptoms of dengue fever last for 3-7 days. Most people get better after that, but some develop life-threatening dengue fever and need to be treated in a medical facility.
