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Symptoms after dengue fever are a matter of concern for many. Dengue fever is not like any other fever. Instead of coming and going away, like the flu, for example, dengue fever can leave long-lasting symptoms that affect your life.
Name the symptoms after dengue fever
Dengue fever is a common illness during each rainy season. Its regular occurrence leads many people not to consider it a significant issue. But what will happen if you have to deal with its long-term consequences? Especially for those with weak immune systems. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women, for example.
1.1. Hair Loss
The first symptom to mention after dengue fever is hair loss. This issue has been observed in some individuals with dengue fever. Experts suggest that due to weakened immune function, your hair follicles may be affected and require time to recover.
Hair loss is a common symptom after dengue fever
Therefore, you need to pay attention to boosting your immune system and taking better care of your hair.
1.2. Joint and Muscle Pain
Joint and muscle pain can occur during and after dengue fever. Some individuals report feeling soreness in their bones even after recovery. This condition is more prevalent in severe cases. If you have severe dengue fever (or experience severe symptoms), issues like joint pain and muscle soreness may persist after recovery.
Patients may experience joint and muscle fatigue after dengue fever
Additionally, if you have diabetes, liver, or kidney disease, the pain may be more severe. This is attributed to your weakened immune system.
1.3. Fatigue
One of the most common symptoms after dengue fever is chronic fatigue syndrome. Essentially, it occurs in most virus-infected patients, including Covid19.
Fatigue is a hallmark symptom after virus infection
Even after recovering from the illness, you always feel tired and lacking in energy. This poses many obstacles to your daily life. Especially if you still experience muscle and joint pain as well.
1.4. Nutritional Deficiency
For those with dengue fever, mineral and vitamin deficiency is highly likely to occur. Symptoms after dengue fever may include pale skin, brittle hair and nails, digestive disorders, etc. This is also one of the reasons why joint pain becomes more severe during and after dengue fever.
After recovering from dengue fever, patients still experience nutritional deficiencies
According to research, individuals affected by dengue fever are found to be deficient in vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin E, and other essential nutrients. Therefore, they will face various illnesses and disorders if not adequately supplemented.
1.5. Anxiety and Depression
Surprisingly, this is also one of the symptoms after dengue fever. Many people have overlooked this issue. However, numerous studies have revealed significant changes in stress levels, depression, and anxiety in dengue fever patients.
Symptoms after dengue fever: Stress
Sometimes, anxiety and depression also stem from the symptoms above. Hair loss or body aches can make you feel stressed.
1.6. Dengue Shock Syndrome
Although not a symptom after dengue fever, this is a serious consequence. If you are not well cared for after dengue fever, in the next infection, you may experience severe hypotension.
Symptoms after dengue fever may be transient or severe, depending on the patient's condition or care.
Patients need to be cautious with Dengue Shock Syndrome
To limit adverse effects, experts advise you to take good care of yourself after recovering from the illness.
2. Caring for Patients After Dengue Fever
Post-dengue fever symptoms are more common than you think and are collectively known as Post-Viral Fatigue Syndrome. Even though you've recovered, your body still feels unprepared for everyday activities. Here are 5 tips to help you recover faster.
2.1. Follow a Balanced Diet
When you have dengue fever, your body starts to lack many essential vitamins and minerals. Therefore, it's crucial to supplement these nutrients adequately. Vegetables, fruits, or supplements can be beneficial. Avoid oily foods and snacks as they can harm your digestive system. Drinking papaya leaf juice is considered one of the fastest ways to recover at home. Besides meat, include fish and eggs for sufficient protein. Ensure that your meals are not too spicy or oily. Also, cook your food thoroughly and avoid excessive use of spices.
2.2. Stay Hydrated Every Day
To mitigate post-dengue fever symptoms, prevent dehydration. Aim to drink enough water, about 2-2.5 liters per day (approximately 8 cups). You can also consume fresh fruit juice if you find it difficult to drink plain water throughout the day.
Ensure You Drink 8 Cups of Water Daily
Drinking orange juice is highly effective as it is rich in vitamin C and aids in iron absorption. Additionally, coconut water is also a good option. If you experience nausea, opt for electrolyte-rich drinks like Oresol. Furthermore, avoid alcohol as it dehydrates the body.
2.3. Maintain an Active Lifestyle
During the recovery phase post dengue fever, it's essential to engage in daily physical activities. Begin with gentle exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, etc. Then gradually increase the intensity of your workouts.
Initially, fatigue might discourage you from being active. However, don't worry too much; fatigue is just part of the recovery process. You need to balance exercise with adequate rest.
2.4. Adequate Vitamin Supplementation
Symptoms following dengue fever often stem from vitamin deficiencies. Therefore, it's crucial to supplement enough vitamins to help your body quickly regain its immune capabilities. Additionally, some vitamins aid in the regeneration of lost red and white blood cells.
Vitamin D, B, and E are the most crucial types to supplement. You can find them in various foods around you. Also, ensure to increase vitamin D intake by spending more time outdoors.
2.5. Prioritize Adequate Rest
Similar to dietary habits, proper rest and sufficient sleep aid in faster recovery for your body.
If you feel sluggish and fatigued, take a moment to rest and relax. Getting enough sleep, at least 8 hours a day, helps regenerate tissues effectively. This is crucial for your body to return to its normal activities.
Balance Exercise and Rest Appropriately
Typically, individuals recover from dengue fever after two weeks of treatment. However, symptoms following dengue fever may persist for several weeks or longer. During this time, patients need proper care and a balanced regimen of exercise and rest.
In summary, symptoms post dengue fever pose many challenges to patients' daily lives. To mitigate these effects, it's essential to have accurate information and self-care practices. Especially, ensuring adequate vitamin and mineral supplementation.
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