Dengue fever, also called Dandy fever. This is also known as three-day fever due to its duration, and Breakbone fever. This is a disease of the tropical and sub-tropical region. Dengue fever is a flu-like illness spread by the bite of an infected mosquito whereas Dengue hemorrhagic fever is a severe, often fatal, complication of dengue fever. Dengue and dengue hemorrhagic fever are caused by any of the dengue family of viruses. Infection with one virus does not protect a person against infection with another.

Causes and Symptoms: Dengue fever is transmitted by infected mosquitoes. Its onset is sudden and it is characterized by swelling and pains in the joints and muscles. Eruptions may also appear on various parts of the body along with the above symptoms. The throat is sore and the eyes usually become watery. The symptoms gradually pass off in three days, leaving the patient very weak. Relapses occur frequently causing the disease to last for as long as one month. Dengue fever, however, is not a fatal disease.

The temperature pattern in this fever shows a sudden rise, followed by a relative fall the whole process is followed by another sudden fall. That is why the temperature in dengue fever is called a `saddleback` type temperature. One should remember that over-medication in dengue fever is likely to lead to further complications. A mild attack of the fever may pass off without having to administer any medicine.

Medicines & Prescriptions: Hinguleshwar should be taken 120 mg, and 360 mg of Shunthi Churna should be taken four times daily with hot water. In case the temperature goes beyond 40°C, cold compresses should be applied.

Diet and Other Regimen: The dietary restrictions are the same as in the case of other fevers. The patient should be kept on a liquid diet, preferably milk and fruit juices. Substances that are likely to irritate the digestive organs should be avoided.

Massage and fomentation with a hot water bottle will provide relief as because the disease causes aches and pains all over the body, particularly in the backbone. Mild laxatives are recommended in case there is constipation.