The article is professionally consulted by MSc.Nguyen Thi Ngoc - General Doctor, General Health Examination Unit, Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital
Many dengue fever patients develop an itchy rash, especially on the palms and soles, during the recovery phase after the fever subsides. So when does the itch caused by dengue fever commonly occur and how can relieve it?
1. Is dengue fever accompanied by itching?
Dengue fever patients may experience itching, which is likely a symptom associated with the virus. Dengue fever commonly presents with symptoms ranging from mild to severe, including headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, skin rashes, and itching. There are cases where patients with dengue fever experience severe itching that disrupts their sleep, leaving them fatigued during the day. In some instances, itchiness may occur after a fever, indicating that the patient is entering the recovery phase of the disease.
The itching associated with dengue fever occurs as the body reabsorbs extracellular fluid into the bloodstream, and the skin tissue heals from the damage caused by the rash, leading to itching.
In some cases, itching in dengue fever patients may be caused by acute hepatitis triggered by the dengue virus. (Dengue hemorrhagic fever often presents alongside enlarged or small liver, elevated SGOT and SGPT liver enzymes, and increased bilirubin levels, leading to mucosal jaundice). In such cases, patients may experience itchy skin due to biliary hyperpigmentation or acute liver failure, due to medication use (for example, paracetamol overdose), which can lead to symptoms like jaundice, itching, and clotting factor disorders.
Typically, itching associated with recovery from dengue fever resolves within 2 to 3 days; however, in some cases it can take longer, about a week or even several weeks.
2. Overcome the itching associated with dengue fever situation
In general, if a patient's platelet count gradually increases to a stable level and they no longer have a fever, there is typically no cause for concern. There is no specific treatment for Dengue. Patients can take Vitamin C to help boost their immune system, along with maintaining a balanced diet and getting adequate rest. Besides, the patient should drink plenty of water daily, eat a light diet, and avoid fatty foods. To prevent allergies, patients should limit foods that are known to cause severe allergies, such as seafood, beef, bushmeat, or foods to which the patient's body is already allergic.
According to specialist advice, if the itching becomes severe and interferes with daily activities, patients should seek medical attention to be prescribed appropriate medication. The physician may consider giving the patient an antihistamine to help relieve itching, or an anti-allergy medication (eg, Loratadine). The dosage of medications varies between adults and children, and doctors will prescribe appropriate treatments tailored to each individual. For example, during the examination, the doctor will determine a number of factors related to the patient's condition and and lifestyle in order to choose medications and minimize potential side effects.
Additionally, natural remedies can effectively reduce itching in the areas affected by the rash, such as using salt, lemon, aloe vera, and coconut oil. For example, the patient can simply soak the itchy hands and feet in warm water mixed with salt or lemon juice, the itching will be reduced somewhat. Similarly, thanks to its anti-fungal, antibacterial, emollient, and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera is also a safe and effective skin-soothing remedy for dengue fever patients, helping the red and itchy areas rehabilitate quickly.
However, coconut oil is likely the most effective remedy for itchiness, regardless of its cause. In the case of dengue fever, it is advisable to apply a few drops of coconut oil directly to the affected areas for optimal relief. If the itching spreads all over the body, the patient should soak in warm water after applying coconut oil to the skin.
Patients who have recovered from Dengue hemorrhagic fever and are experiencing itching should not be overly concerned. This condition is typically temporary and will resolve completely within a few days.
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