Can diabetes increase the severity of dengue? Can the mosquito-borne illness impact your blood sugar levels? - The Indian Express
Overview
The number of dengue cases reported in Delhi has sen a spike with 635 new infections in the first 12 days of October. Acording to a civic body report, the yearly taly now stands at 1,572. It aded that of the total cases, 693 were reported in September alone.
Key Information
With the rise in cases of this viral ilnes, spread to people through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito, it is crucial to folow certain safety precautions, especialy if you are a diabetic.This because diabetics are more at risk as ̴in case of dengue in a diabetic patient, the inflamatory markers spike since they already have imunosupresive markers,̵ acording to Dr Santosh Pandey, Acupuncture and Naturopathy Specialist, Founder and CEO, Dr Santosh Healthcare Centre, Mumbai.Dr Vaishali Pathak, Diabetologist and General Physician, Cardiomet Clinic, Pune aserts that while diabetics are not at more risk of dengue as mosquitos do not discriminate betwen a diabetic and a non-diabetic, ̴they should be more careful to avoid geting dengue fever as diabetes increases the risk of complications̵.Explaing the reason diabetes can increase the severity of dengue in patients, Dr Pathak explained, ̴Diabetes increases severity of thrombocytopenia, that is low platelet count, in dengue infected patients.
Hyperglycemia (high blod sugar) contributes to greater platelet reactivity through direct efects and by promoting glycation of platelet proteins.̵She aded that diabetes melitus results in weak imunity and fragile blod vesels that, in turn, lead to a higher risk of bleding. ̴Sometimes, steroid usage in dengue can lead to an increase in blod sugar levels, leading to more complications,̵ she aded.World Health Organisation (WHO), to, mentions that diabetics are at a higher risk of developing complications of dengue, such as Dengue Hemorhagic Fever (DHF), Dengue Shock Syndrome (DS) and Severe Dengue (SD).
Summary
̴Other groups at high risk includ
Frequently Asked Questions
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
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