Don't overlook the eyes! Dengue Fever can affect your vision too. Stay informed and protect yourself from this mosquito-borne threat!
Mosquito-borne viral infection Dengue fever is a serious health concern in many parts of the world. Most people associate Dengue with flu-like symptoms, though this disease can also affect our eyes. Ocular complications of dengue fever are less discussed. They can have significant consequences on our vision and overall health.
Know about Dengue to stay protected
This fever is mainly caused by the dengue virus, generally transmitted to the Human body through the bites of infected female Aedes mosquitoes. The dengue virus has four variant serotypes (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4), and infected by one serotype not provides immunity against the others serotype. Common symptoms of dengue fever include sudden high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, nausea, and a skin rash similar to measles.
Ocular Complications of Dengue Fever
While most dengue fever cases are self-limiting and resolve without complications, some individuals may experience more severe manifestations. Ocular complications can occur during the acute phase of the infection or as a part of the post-infectious phase. Some of the eye problems associated with dengue fever include:
- Ocular Pain: Patients with dengue fever may experience eye pain varying in intensity from mild discomfort to severe.
- Conjunctivitis: Dengue fever can cause Conjunctivitis, commonly known as Pink Eye or Joy Bangla. This condition involves inflammation of the conjunctiva. It can lead to redness, itching, tearing, and a sensation of grittiness.
- Uveitis: Uveitis refers to inflammation of the Uvea, the middle layer of the eye. It can cause eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, and floaters.
- Retinal Vasculitis: In some cases, the blood vessels in the retina can become inflamed, a condition known as retinal vasculitis. It can lead to visual disturbances, including blurring or loss of vision.
- Optic Neuritis: Dengue fever can also affect the optic nerve, causing optic neuritis. This condition can result in reduced vision, colour vision abnormalities, and pain with eye movements.
- Maculopathy: The Macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision, can be affected by Maculopathy in some cases of dengue fever. It can lead to central vision loss or distortion.
Prevention is better than cure
Preventing dengue fever is the best approach to avoid its ocular complications. Mosquito control measures like eliminating breeding sites, using mosquito nets, and applying repellents, can significantly reduce the risk of infection. If you suspect dengue fever or experience any eye-related symptoms during or after a dengue infection, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention. An eye examination by an ophthalmologist can help detect ocular complications and facilitate early intervention.
Say no to Dengue
This viral infection can lead to various complications, including ocular manifestations. Eye-related symptoms during or after a dengue infection should not be ignored, as they may indicate a potential threat to vision. Timely medical intervention and preventive measures are the only way to minimize the impact of dengue-related eye problems. By raising awareness about these ocular complications, we can step forward in safeguarding our eyesight and overall health during dengue outbreaks.
