Join the Fight Against Dengue: Empowering Detection with Manipal TruTest

Dengue Diet: What to Eat and Avoid During Dengue Fever

A virus that is spread by mosquitoes, dengue fever causes high fever, bodily pains, and exhaustion. In extreme situations, it may result in consequences such as organ damage, low platelet counts, and bleeding. The proper diet is essential for promoting the body's healing and bolstering the immune system, even while medical care and hydration are essential for managing dengue. During dengue fever, knowing when to eat and what to avoid might help reduce symptoms, speed up recovery, and stop more problems.

What to Eat During Dengue Fever

Fluids that linger are critical to stay hydrated when treating dengue fever. Dehydration from fever and perspiration might exacerbate symptoms. To replace lost fluids, drink lots of water,  and electrolyte-rich beverages. By preserving electrolyte balance, oral solutions for rehydration (ORS) can help avoid dehydration and its consequences. 

Fresh Vegetables and Fruits Vitamins and minerals included in fresh produce boost immunity and aid in the healing process. Fruits high in vitamin C, like papayas, guavas, and oranges, are particularly beneficial for lowering inflammation and increasing immunity. For example, papaya leaves have long been used to boost platelet counts, which might decrease when a person has dengue.

Soups and Broths Clear soups and broths are simple for absorption and can support proper hydration. In addition to delivering essential electrolytes and calming the throat, soups made with chicken, vegetables, and garlic and ginger can be nourishing. Additionally, the soups' warmth can help ease physical aches.

Foods High in Protein Eating lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and eggs, helps the body heal itself. Protein aids in the repair of damaged tissues and cells, which is crucial for sickness recovery. Protein should, however, ideally be consumed in small, readily digestible portions.

Foods to Avoid During Dengue Fever

Caffeinated and Sugary Beverages Avoid caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea, and sodas, as they can contribute to dehydration. Similarly, sugary beverages like sugary fruit juices or soft drinks can worsen dehydration and cause spikes in blood sugar, which is undesirable during illness.

Oily and Fatty Foods Fried foods, fatty meats, and high-fat dairy products can be difficult to digest and may lead to discomfort, especially if the stomach is upset. These foods can also increase inflammation and slow down the recovery process.

Spicy Foods While spices may be appealing to some, spicy foods can irritate the stomach and exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort, which is common during dengue fever. It’s best to stick to bland and easily digestible foods until recovery is well underway.

Processed Foods Processed and packaged foods are often high in sodium, preservatives, and artificial additives. These can lead to water retention and may worsen symptoms of dehydration. It's best to avoid these in favour of whole, fresh foods that offer more nutritional value.

Conclusion

A healthy diet is critical for promoting recovery from dengue illness. Water is the most crucial element of care, as is eating nutrient-dense foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and proteins, which increase immunity and aid recovery. Avoiding meals that induce dehydration or disturb the digestive system will help your body concentrate on combating the illness and healing more quickly. Always seek personalised advice from a healthcare professional, particularly if symptoms increase or complications emerge.

Raising Awareness on World Malaria Day: Essential Prevention Strategies

Malaria remains a significant public health concern, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. Implementing preventative practices and seeking prompt medical evaluation upon experiencing symptoms are important for individuals and the well-being of the community.

Leading medical authorities emphasise on malaria being a preventable and treatable illness. Taking proactive steps to minimise mosquito exposure and seeking immediate medical attention at the first sign or symptoms are fundamental in protecting oneself and the broader community.

Essential Malaria Prevention Strategies

1. Minimise Mosquito Exposure: As mosquitoes transmit malarial parasites, several measures can be taken:

• Use Insect Repellents: Apply DEET-based repellents (minimum 20% DEET) to exposed skin.
• Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, particularly during dawn and dusk (peak mosquito feeding times), wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and socks.
• Utilize Mosquito Nets: In areas with high mosquito populations, sleep under insecticide-treated bed nets.

2. Eradicate Mosquito Breeding Sites: Stagnant water serves as a breeding ground for mosquitoes. To minimize this risk:

• Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly remove any stagnant water around residences, including gutters, flowerpots, and discarded containers.
• Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure proper drainage around properties to prevent water accumulation.

Importance of Early Detection

While prevention is vital, prompt diagnosis and treatment is equally important in combating malaria. It is vital to be aware of common symptoms and seek immediate medical attention, if you experience any of the following, particularly after traveling to a malaria-endemic region:

• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea

The Role of Blood Testing

A simple blood test at Manipal TRUtest becomes the most reliable method for diagnosing malaria. Early diagnosis via at- home collection facilitates prompt treatment and helps prevent the spread of the disease. Manipal TRUtest offers a comprehensive range of reliable and readily available malarial blood tests to ensure timely and accurate diagnosis.

Adhering to these preventative measures and seeking immediate medical attention with immediate, accurate and appropriate testing, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of contracting malaria and contribute to a healthier global community.

About Manipal TRUtest

Manipal TRUtest, the diagnostic arm of the esteemed Manipal Group, leverages its 70-year heritage to position itself at the forefront of accessible healthcare. The team is committed to providing high-quality diagnostic services across a nationwide network of over 100 facilities. The comprehensive menu exceeding 3500 tests and scans empowers you to take informed healthcare decisions. Through rapid reporting within 24 hours and a team of qualified professionals adhering to rigorous NABL/NABH accreditation standards, Manipal TRUtest truly prioritises timely and accurate diagnosis.

Facts About Dengue That You Should Know About

Dengue is a disease which has nowadays created a nightmare among the people who get affected with it. It is such a disease which can turn into an endemic in very less amount of time. As Dengue spreads by mosquito bites it easily takes a large number of people into its grabs within very less time.

Symptoms of Dengue:

Dengue has got some very common symptoms which make it very difficult to distinguish it from other diseases. The most common symptoms of Dengue are:

i) Headaches

ii) High Fevers

iii) Joint Pains

iv) Painful eyes

v) Rashes

It takes very less time to change into the severe stage which can prove fatal.

There is No Specific Medicine for Dengue:

It is always better to prevent Dengue by getting tested for it at an early stage because it has no specific medicines available. If even one case of dengue occurs in a given area, you should get a dengue test if you find the symptoms occurring with you.

Dengue is a Viral Disease:

A viral disease, Dengue spreads by the bites of Aedes Mosquitoes. Always keep your surroundings clean so these mosquitoes can never breed in your area.

Drinking enough water and resting may help to cure Dengue.

Suggested Diagnosis and Tests for Dengue

• Uric Acid Serum
• Stool Examination Routine
• CBC (Complete Blood Count)