New Delhi, April 11 (IANS). Chikungunya and dengue are both mosquito-borne diseases, but people often consider them to be the same. Actually, these two are diseases caused by different viruses and their symptoms are also slightly different. If identified at the right time, treatment becomes easier and the patient can recover quickly.
Dengue is a viral disease. In this, there is sudden high fever, which can go up to 102 to 104 degrees. Along with this, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, extreme pain and weakness are felt in the body. Red rashes also start appearing on the body of many people. In some cases, vomiting, nausea and loss of appetite also occur. The biggest problem of dengue is that platelets start decreasing in it, due to which the body can become weak and in serious condition there is a risk of bleeding.
At the same time, in Chikungunya also there is a sudden high fever, but in this there is severe pain in the joints. This pain can be so severe that the patient has difficulty even walking. There may be swelling and stiffness in the hands, feet, knees and ankles. Many people also develop fatigue, headache, vomiting and mild rash. In chikungunya, joint pain can persist for weeks or months even after the fever subsides, which makes it different from dengue.
The method of prevention from both diseases is almost the same. The most important thing is to avoid mosquitoes. Do not allow water to accumulate around the house, because that is where mosquitoes breed. Do not allow water to stagnate in coolers, pots, tires and buckets. Use mosquito nets while sleeping and keep your body covered during the day also, because these mosquitoes bite more during the day. Using mosquito repellent cream or spray also helps.
Talking about home remedies, it is very important to keep the body hydrated. Take as much water, coconut water and ORS as possible so that the body does not become weak. In dengue, people often use juice of papaya leaves and light food, whereas in chikungunya, turmeric milk and warm fomentation provide relief in joint pain. Rest is most important in both the diseases.
If fever continues for more than 2-3 days, there is severe pain in the body, frequent vomiting or symptoms like bleeding are seen, then you should immediately contact a doctor. Self-medicating or taking the disease lightly can be dangerous.
–IANS
PIM/VC