Dengue is a viral infection caused due to the dengue virus and transmitted by the bite of a female Aedes aegypti mosquito. The common symptoms of this disease include fever, headache, muscle and body pain, and joint pain. Those with dengue fever normally develop swollen palms and soles, skin rashes, and itching over the body. The occurrence of rashes and itching can be witnessed twice during different stages of progression of the disease.First, during the initial (active infection) stage of the disease, and second, when the fever has subsided or is in its last stage (recovery phase).
Itching during dengue affects several patients and can cause major discomfort.
One of the most important questions is why does itching occur during dengue?
Here is the answer.
Causes of itching during dengue
Itchy skin during dengue is known as pruritus. The mechanism of itching during dengue is complex and involves the occurrence of several biological processes triggered due to the dengue virus. The immune system of the body responds to the dengue infection through various mechanisms, initiating the immune response.
Here are the various causes of itching during dengue.
Immune response and release of histamine
- Histamines are chemical messengers that are released by the immune system of the body to ward off infections.
- When infected with dengue, the release of histamines increases blood vessel permeability.
- This causes leakage of fluid into the surrounding tissues, causing redness, swelling, and itching.
Production of cytokines
The release of specific cytokines such as TNF-ฮฑ (Tumor necrosis factor alpha), IFN-ฮณ (Interferon-gamma), IL-1 (Interleukin-1), IL-2 (Interleukin-2) causes itching sensations in patients during dengue.
Occurrence of a cytokine storm
- In severe cases of dengue, a potential ‘cytokine storm’ may develop, due to release of excessive cytokines.
- This potent immune release can trigger inflammation all over the body causing skin rashes and itching.
Activation of dendritic cells in skin
- The dendritic cells in skin are known as Langerhans cells.
- These cells are a part of the immune system of the skin.
- The dengue virus causes activation of these dendritic skin cells triggering itching sensations.
Treatment of itching in dengue
Intense itching in dengue requires immediate medical attention. Excessive itching may cause secondary skin infections, possibly worsening the condition. Various treatments are available to manage itching in dengue. Typically doctors at the best hospital in Baroda recommend the use of specific medications and topical dermatological treatment to provide relief from itching.
Here are the possible management strategies followed by the multispeciality hospital Vadodara for managing dengue.
Antihistamines
- Antihistamines are medications that function by blocking the effects of histamine.
- This reduces the skin inflammation and itching.
- Some of the antihistamines that may be recommended are cetirizine, loratadine, rupatadine, diphenhydramine, etc.
Topical steroids
- The use of topical steroids such as corticosteroid ointments or cream can decrease skin itching and inflammation in dengue.
- Topical steroids should be used under medical supervision of the best hospital In Baroda to avoid any possible side effects.
Moisturizers
The use of moisturizers recommended by the top multispeciality hospital Vadodara can soothe skin itching by keeping the skin hydrated and prevents further irritation of the skin.
Patients should follow improved hygienic practices
- Patients should avoid excessive scratching of the itching areas on the skin to prevent skin damage and any possible changes of secondary skin infections.
- To reduce skin irritation, patients should wear loose clothing made of breathable fabrics and also cut their nails.
Home remedies to provide relief from itching during dengue
In addition to medical treatments by the best hospital in Baroda for recovery, following certain home remedies can alleviate skin itching and provide relief from it. Some of these include:
| Cold compress | Applying a cold, damp cloth over the itchy area can numb the skin, reduce inflammation and provide relief from itching. |
| Aloe vera | Aloe vera is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.Applying aloe vera gel can soothe the itchy skin and promote healing. |
| Oatmeal bath | Bathing with water containing colloidal oatmeal has a soothing effect on the irritated and inflamed skin.It can calm the itchy skin and reduce inflammation. |
| Coconut oil | Coconut oil produces an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin.Applying coconut oil moisturizes the skin, minimizes itching, and promotes healing. |
| Neem leaves | Neem leaves have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.Boiling neem leaves and applying cold water decoction to the affected skin areas can reduce itching and prevent infections, |
| Chamomile tea compress | Chamomile tea contains natural compounds that reduce inflammation.Soak a clean cloth in chamomile tea and apply over the affected area.This reduces skin inflammation and soothes itching. |
Dengue-related itching is quite common but highly misunderstood. However, with the right treatment from a multispeciality hospital Vadodara and following certain home remedies patients can overcome this phase during dengue infection.
Are you searching for the best hospital in Baroda to manage dengue and the skin itching that comes with it? Get in touch with SMS Hospital, a reputed multispeciality hospital Vadodara.