How Long Does Dengue Rash Last And How To Relieve The Discomfort

Dengue is a disease transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This condition can cause a series of symptoms such as sudden fever, intense headache, and muscle and joint pain, and one of the most notable is the rash or skin eruption that appears on the skin.

This rash has characteristics very similar to those of measles and generally appears after the first febrile phase of dengue, lasting approximately 3 to 7 days.

People need to be alert to the symptoms of dengue and, if they have any doubts, consult a health professional to reduce discomfort and begin treatment.

Characteristics of dengue rash

The rash in patients with dengue can have different characteristics:

• Red spots: These may appear on the skin, often spreading across the torso and limbs.
• Patchy rashes: The rash may appear in irregular patches.
• Itching: Although not always intense, it may be accompanied by itching or discomfort.
• Fading and coming back: In some cases, the rash may fade temporarily and then come back.

The rash is often accompanied by other symptoms of dengue, such as high fever, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and in some cases, gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.

Causes of dengue rash

This type of rash usually appears on the skin as an immune response to the virus.

The rash occurs as part of the body’s inflammatory response to the virus. Inflammation and the release of certain chemical mediators in the body can cause the rash to appear.

How to soothe the itching caused by the rash?

There are many home remedies recommended by experts to relieve the itching caused by the rash, such as: soaking your hands and feet in a bowl of cold water or applying ice packs for 10 minutes to reduce inflammation and itching. It is recommended to repeat if necessary.

In addition, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) of the United States advises staying hydrated, using antihistamines, and constantly monitoring yourself to be aware of any signs of complications of the disease.

Treatment and prevention

There is no specific treatment for dengue fever, and the medicines given to patients are focused on pain relief. The WHO recommends that paracetamol be prescribed for pain relief, while NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided, as they increase the risk of bleeding.

In addition, to prevent the spread of the disease, the World Health Organization recommends:

• Eliminate any standing water, as this is the ideal place for mosquitoes to lay their eggs.
• Keep containers where water is stored, such as flower pot saucers, clean.
• Clean gutters and rain drains on your roof and cover tanks or containers you use to collect water.

Experts also recommend the use of repellents and protective clothing, especially during the hours of the day when mosquitoes are most active.

Being alert to dengue symptoms and seeking early medical attention are key steps in managing this disease.