Monsoon Fever vs. Dengue: Doctor’s insights on how to differentiate between the two

The monsoon season brings welcome relief from the sweltering heat, but it also brings a host of diseases and infections. As the rains start, we see a steady increase in patients coming in with symptoms like fever, loose stools, vomiting, and body aches. While some illnesses like the flu can be managed at home, others can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly by a doctor.
Fever during the monsoons can be caused by a variety of factors.Typhoid fever, for instance, typically presents with high-grade fever, headache, generalized body ache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and loose stools. Viral fever, on the other hand, can cause fever, body ache, cough, runny nose, red and itchy eyes. In endemic regions, malaria can present with fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, joint pains, and in severe cases, can lead to jaundice and acute renal failure.

Viral hepatitis can also cause fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, decreased appetite, and yellowish discoloration of urine and eyes. Denguefever is another common monsoon-related illness that can present with high-grade fever, headache, joint pain, rashes, and in some cases, vomiting. If left untreated, dengue can lead to fulminant bleeding, shock, and even death.

The challenge lies in differentiating between these diseases based on symptoms alone, as they often overlap. Laboratory tests like complete blood counts (CBC) and other specific tests are usually required to diagnose and differentiate between these illnesses. Therefore, it's crucial to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen over time.
Remember, timely diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference between recovery and complications. So, let's stay vigilant and take necessary precautions during the monsoon season to stay healthy and safe!
(Author: Dr Ajay Agarwal, Director- Internal Medicine, Fortis Hospital, Noida)