Dengue - Home nursing services in lahore
July 30, 2025

Dengue Fever in Lahore: Symptoms, Treatment, Prevention & Home Nursing Tips

Hey there! Did you know that dengue fever is a common viral illness in warm places like Lahore? It’s spread by mosquitoes and can turn serious if not treated in time. Whether you’re recovering from dengue or want to protect your family, this guide walks you through symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and how Shumaya Home Care & Patient Service can support you with trusted Home Nursing Services in Lahore and Patient Care Services right at your doorstep.

What Is Dengue Fever?

Dengue fever is caused by one of four dengue viruses. When an infected Aedes mosquito bites you, the virus enters your blood. After a few days, symptoms start to appear. It doesn’t spread from person to person—only through mosquito bites.

How Do You Know It’s Dengue? (Symptoms)

Symptoms usually begin 4–10 days after being bitten by a mosquito. Watch out for:

  • High fever (up to 104°F or 40°C)

  • Severe headache (often behind the eyes)

  • Intense joint and muscle pain

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Skin rash

  • Fatigue and swollen glands

Dengue - Home nursing services in lahore

Warning Signs of Severe Dengue

Sometimes dengue turns into a more serious condition called severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. Signs include:

  • Severe stomach pain

  • Repeated vomiting

  • Bleeding from gums or nose

  • Blood in vomit, stool, or urine

  • Restlessness or extreme fatigue

If you notice these signs, seek medical help immediately. Severe dengue can lead to shock and may be life-threatening.

Dengue vs. Malaria: What’s the Difference?

Both dengue and malaria cause fever, but there are key differences:

Dengue Malaria
Sudden high fever, rash, “break-bone” pain Chills, sweating, jaundice
Spread by Aedes mosquitoes Spread by Anopheles mosquitoes
No liver involvement Liver often affected

Not sure which one you have? Let your doctor know about recent travel and get a blood test for an accurate diagnosis.

How Is Dengue Diagnosed?

Doctors may perform:

  • Blood tests (to detect the virus)

  • MAC-ELISA (antibody test)

  • PCR tests (detect dengue genetic material)

  • CBC (Complete Blood Count) – to monitor low platelets or white blood cells

These help guide treatment and monitor severity.

Dengue Treatment: What You Can Do at Home

There’s no specific cure, but mild dengue can be managed with:

  • Rest

  • Fluids – Water, oral rehydration solutions, coconut water

  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol) – for fever and body pain

  • Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and NSAIDs – they can cause bleeding

If symptoms worsen or don’t improve in a few days, contact a doctor or explore our Patient Care Services in Lahore for safe, professional at-home support.

When Hospital Care Is Needed

In severe cases, hospital treatment may include:

  • IV fluids

  • Monitoring blood pressure and platelet levels

  • Blood transfusions (if bleeding occurs)

Recovery is possible with timely treatment. Once you’re discharged, Home Nursing in Lahore from Shumaya Home Care ensures continued care at home.

Can Dengue Be Prevented?

Absolutely. Here’s how:

1. Protect Yourself from Mosquito Bites

  • Use insect repellents (DEET, picaridin)

  • Wear long sleeves and pants

  • Use mosquito nets and window screens

2. Eliminate Breeding Grounds

  • Empty standing water in buckets, flower pots, old tires

  • Clean water tanks and coolers weekly

  • Cover containers during rain

3. Community Action

  • Collaborate with neighbors to clean up mosquito habitats

  • Report stagnant water to authorities

  • Stay alert during dengue season (especially July–October in Lahore)

Dengue Vaccines: What You Should Know

Two vaccines exist:

Dengvaxia (Sanofi–Pasteur)

  • For ages 9–16 with previous dengue infection

  • Around 80% effective

  • Approved in Pakistan under limited conditions

Qdenga (TAK-003)

  • Available in some countries for ages 6–16

  • Suitable even for people with no prior infection

  • Two doses, three months apart

Ask your doctor if you’re eligible. Vaccine access may vary by region in Pakistan.

Common Questions About Dengue

Q: Can I get dengue more than once?
Yes. There are 4 types (DENV-1 to DENV-4). Getting infected once gives lifetime immunity to that type—but only temporary protection from the others. A second infection can be more severe.

Q: How long does dengue last?
Usually 3–7 days, though fatigue may last for weeks.

Q: Is dengue deadly?
It can be. Globally, about 21,000 people die each year. However, with proper treatment, the death rate drops below 1%.

Real-Life Tips for Home Care

  • Keep a fever diary

  • Set reminders to drink fluids regularly

  • Ask a family member or trained home nurse to monitor warning signs

  • Stay connected to friends and neighbors for emotional support and errands

Wrap-Up: You’re Not Alone

Dengue fever can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and support, recovery is very possible. Here’s what matters most:

Need professional care for a loved one recovering from dengue? Explore our compassionate, affordable Home Nursing Services in Lahore or Patient Care Services. We’re here to help—right where you need us most: at home.

Leave a Reply