Dengue in Children
Dengue in Children is as dangerous for life as of adults. Children, like adults, can face organ failure in severe cases of dengue fever. Dengue is caused by a virus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes. Severe dengue, also known as dengue hemorrhagic fever or Dengue shock syndrome (DSS), these severe forms of dengue can lead to plasma leakage, decreased platelet counts, and severe bleeding, all of which can result in organ failure.
Why it is dangerous for Children?
The exact reasons why dengue in Children may be more susceptible to organ failure in some cases are not fully understood, but several factors can contribute:
• Immature immune systems: Children generally have less developed immune systems compared to adults, which can make them more vulnerable to severe infections like dengue.
• Secondary infection: Severe dengue often occurs when a person is infected with a different serotype of the dengue virus after a previous infection. Children might have less previous exposure and, therefore, could be more susceptible to secondary infections.
• Vascular instability: Severe dengue can cause changes in blood vessels, leading to leakage of plasma and decreased blood platelets. Children’s blood vessels might be more susceptible to these changes.
• Coagulation issues: Dengue can affect blood clotting, which may be more pronounced in children due to their developing coagulation systems.
• Delayed medical care: In some cases, children may not receive prompt medical attention, leading to the progression of the disease and an increased risk of organ failure.
Ayurvedic Remedies –
Ayurveda offers effective home remedies to help control and treat the symptoms of dengue. Here are some of the remedies. Doing all of them together is not recommended, however, you may choose a couple of them that work for you!
1. Boost Immunity With Giloy
Giloy, a well-known immunity booster, helps in maintaining the metabolic rate, improving the immune system, and increasing the platelet count. A herbal drink can be made by boiling two small stems of Giloy plant in a glass of water until half a glass of water remains. Drink this Giloy infused water twice a day. Giloy helps in balancing the tridoshas.
2. Increase Platelet Count With Papaya Leaf
As the need of the hour is to increase the platelet count, Ayurveda strongly prescribes the papaya leaves juice for platelets. Papaya leaves juice also helps relieve tiredness, nausea, and stomach problems. You can prepare papaya leaf juice by crushing its leaves and extracting the juice. Drinking a small quantity of papaya leaf juice twice a day can offer great results.
3. Mulethi For Fever Control
Mulethi helps balance the aggravated doshas and reduce inflammation. So, drinking herbal tea made from mulethi helps in reducing fever, inflammation and improves immunity. You can also use mulethi with sunthi and drink it twice a day.
4. Antibacterial Neem For Dengue
Neem leaves in dengue increase the platelet count, remove the toxins from the body, and strengthen the immune system. You can prepare a herbal brew by steeping 3-4 neem leaves in a glass of water and drinking the brew throughout the day.
5. Orange Juice or Sweet lime Juice For Dengue Fever
Oranges and Sweet Lime are rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants which help in building immunity. Drinking orange or sweet lime juice is an elixir for a dengue patient. It helps keep the body hydrated, increases urination, thereby releasing toxins from the body. Vitamin C in oranges promotes antibodies that help fight Dengue fever.
Prevention –
To help prevent this situation and save children from severe dengue complications:
• Early Diagnosis: Timely diagnosis and medical intervention are crucial. If a child exhibits dengue-like symptoms (high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, joint and muscle pain), seek medical attention promptly.
• Hydration: Maintain proper hydration. Ensure the child drinks plenty of fluids, as dengue can lead to dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions may be necessary if symptoms worsen.
• Medical Monitoring: Children with dengue should be closely monitored by healthcare professionals to detect any signs of deterioration.
• Platelet Counts: Regularly monitor platelet counts. If platelet levels drop significantly, medical interventions such as platelet transfusions may be necessary.
• Hospitalization: Severe cases should be admitted to a hospital for intensive care and monitoring.
• Avoid Self-Medication: Do not administer non-prescribed medications like aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can worsen bleeding in dengue.
• Mosquito Control: Prevent dengue by eliminating mosquito breeding sites around your home and using protective measures, such as mosquito nets and repellents.
Preventing severe dengue in children involves a combination of early detection, proper medical care, and maintaining hydration.It’s important to note that not all children with dengue will experience organ failure. It’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for guidance when a child is suspected of having dengue.
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