Dengue Outbreak in India: Dengue cases and deaths related to the vector-borne disease are being reported across India. Last week, Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya high-level meeting to review the dengue situation in India and review the preparedness of the public health system to prevent and control the surge.
Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne viral illness prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions, can be a painful and debilitating experience. Consequently, many people start popping painkillers without realising that this can have a fatal impact on their bodies.
“…hallmark symptoms of dengue include high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, headache, and rash. While the discomfort can be overwhelming, there’s a crucial medical reason why you should think twice before reaching for over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin when suffering from dengue,” Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals
In July this year, the Delhi government’s Department of Drugs Control asked the pharmacists in the city to not sell nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) drugs like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen without a doctor’s prescription.
According to Dr Rakesh Gupta, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, during the acute phase of dengue infection, individuals often experience excruciating joint and muscle pain, often referred to as “breakbone fever” due to its severity.
“The immediate instinct for many is to seek relief from this intense pain using painkillers such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include ibuprofen and aspirin,” Dr. Gupta told Financial Express.com.
What happens when you take painkillers while suffering from dengue?
According to Dr. Tushar Tayal, Lead Consultant, Department of Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, taking any other medicine such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which includes nimuselide, diclofenac etc. can increase bleeding risk because NSAIDs can affect platelet function.
“NSAIDs also increase the risk of gastric ulcer and kidney injury hence should be completely avoided in dengue,” he told Financial Express.com.
According to Dr. Gupta, NSAIDs are widely available and effective in managing pain and reducing fever in various conditions. However, when it comes to dengue, using NSAIDs can be perilous. Here’s why:
- Increased Risk of Bleeding: Dengue infection already places individuals at risk of bleeding due to a decreased platelet count. NSAIDs can further increase this risk by inhibiting platelet function and impairing blood clotting. This can lead to severe bleeding complications, which are especially dangerous in cases of DHF or DSS.
- Liver and Kidney Complications: NSAIDs are metabolized by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Dengue can affect these organs, and using NSAIDs may exacerbate the damage. It can lead to liver inflammation, kidney dysfunction, and potentially worsen the overall clinical picture.
- Masking Symptoms: By suppressing fever and pain, NSAIDs can mask the warning signs of severe dengue. When symptoms are hidden, individuals may delay seeking medical attention, which is crucial for early intervention and proper management of severe dengue cases.
- Risk of Other Infections: Dengue infection weakens the immune system. NSAIDs can further compromise immunity, increasing the risk of other infections that can worsen the patient’s condition.
What are the safer alternatives?
Dr. Gupta informed that instead of taking NSAIDs, acetaminophen (paracetamol) should be taken to manage the pain and discomfort of dengue fever.
“This medication can effectively reduce fever and alleviate pain without increasing the risk of bleeding or harming the liver and kidneys. However, it’s crucial to follow the recommended dosage instructions and avoid excessive use,” he told Financial Express.com.
Moreover, he also emphasised that in cases of suspected dengue infection, seeking medical evaluation is paramount.
“Early diagnosis and medical monitoring can help determine the severity of the disease and guide appropriate treatment. While there is no specific antiviral therapy for dengue, supportive care, such as maintaining hydration and managing symptoms, can make a significant difference in the outcome,” he added.
How to prevent dengue?
- Individuals living in or traveling to dengue-endemic areas should take measures to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or screened-in accommodations.
- Community efforts, such as eliminating breeding sites for Aedes mosquitoes, are also crucial in reducing dengue transmission.
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