OVERVIEW
WHAT IS BLOOD C/E FOR DENGUE PATIENTS?
A Blood test performed to detect dengue virus in the blood. Dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that live in tropical and subtropical climates and carry the virus. Blood testing detects the dengue virus produced in response to dengue infection. It is a fast emerging infectious disease, with an increasing number of cases and countries affected throughout the world.
WHAT DOES THE TEST MEASURE?
A dengue test is used to find out if a person has been infected with the dengue virus. It is mostly used for people who have symptoms of illness and have recently traveled to an area where dengue infections are common. In dengue patients’ blood initial blood report will give an idea about:
- Hemoglobin: A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.
- Total leukocyte count: White blood cells are the cells of the immune system
- Hematocrit: The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood
- Platelet count: Involved in clotting
How is the test performed?
The test is performed on a blood sample. The blood is obtained from a vein.
Are there any risks to the test?
There is very little risk of having a blood test. Slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.
What is the fastest way to cure dengue?
There is no specific medicine to treat dengue infection. In dengue fever, use pain relievers with acetaminophen and avoid medicines with aspirin, which could worsen bleeding. Rest and plenty of fluids will help.
Which fruits are good for platelets?
- Papaya
- Pomegranate
- Pumpkin
- Vitamin A rich foods
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
- Hemoglobin: Initially high hemoglobin levels, as a result of the plasma leakage. If hemoglobin is high, it is a danger sign even if the platelet count is normal. When this increases to alarming levels, the blood tissues dry up causing an increase in packed cell volume or hematocrit and an increase in hemoglobin levels. It can lead to ascites(collection of fluid in the abdomen)
- Total leukocyte Count: Dengue fever is characterized by leukopenia, White blood cells decrease in dengue patients.
- Platelet count: The normal count of plateletsis 1.5 lakh to 4.5 lakh per microlitre of blood. In viral fever, it reduces up to 90,000 to one lakh. In dengue, this count goes down to 20,000 or even lower
WHY GET TESTED?
This test is performed if a person has symptoms of dengue fever. Symptoms usually show up four to seven days after being bitten by an infected mosquito and may include
- Sudden high fever (104°F or higher)
- Swollen glands
- Rash on the face
- Severe headache
- Joint and muscle pain
- Pain behind the eyes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue