Dengue fever is an infectious disease transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and it is prevalent in tropical and subtropical areas. Most at risk are children since their immune systems are not fully developed to fight the virus as adults would do. Another important issue in dengue management is the issue of platelets. Low platelet count is dangerous and may cause severe complications. This article will discuss how to achieve the best platelet count in children with dengue with special emphasis on Caripill syrup and papaya leaf syrup.
Interpreting Platelet Count and Dengue
Thrombocytes or platelets are small cells in the blood that are involved in clotting and healing of wounds. Normal platelet count is between 150000 and 450000 platelets per microliter of blood. In dengue fever, the virus attacks the bone marrow where blood cells are manufactured and this results in a drastic decrease in the manufacture of platelets. This condition is referred to as thrombocytopenia and may lead to bleeding, organ complications and in severe cases, dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF).
In children, a sudden decrease in platelet count is especially dangerous because children have less blood and a less developed immune system. Therefore, it is imperative that the platelet count is maintained at its best for the survival of these patients.
Supervision and Control of Platelet Level
In children, the platelet count should be checked as early as possible and should be monitored frequently in managing dengue. Some of the signs include high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and skin rashes. These are the common signs of dengue and should be treated as an emergency. A complete blood count (CBC) is required to check platelet count, more so in case the child’s condition deteriorates or if there is any sign of bleeding.
- Hydration: One of the first measures that can be taken is to ensure that one is well hydrated. Fluids are useful in replacing the lost blood volume and thus avoiding shock, which is a major consequence of dengue. ORS, fresh juices and coconut water should be given to the child to replace the fluids lost due to vomiting and diarrhoea.
- Balanced Diet: Proper nutrition can help boost the immune system and increase platelet count. Oranges, kiwis, strawberries, and other foods containing vitamin C are useful in the absorption of iron that is needed in the production of haemoglobin and platelets. Other vegetables that are good for consumption include- spinach, carrots, and beets since they contain nutrients such as vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants.
Home Remedies to Increase Platelet Count
Besides the medical treatments, there are some natural remedies that have been found effective in increasing platelet count during dengue. Two of such remedies include Caripill syrup and papaya leaf syrup.
1. Caripill Syrup
Caripill syrup is made from the Carica papaya plant which is commonly referred to as papaya. This syrup has been widely used for the treatment of raising platelet count in dengue fever, particularly in children. The main component of Caripill syrup is carica papaya leaf extract, which has been clinically endorsed for its ability to increase platelet count.
How It Works: Caripill syrup contains papaya leaf extract which has enzymes such as papain and chymopapain and these have great anti-inflammatory effects. These enzymes assist in increasing the number of platelets in the blood by encouraging the bone marrow to make more platelets. Also, the extract is a good source of antioxidants that assist in decreasing the level of oxidative stress that is brought about by the dengue virus and thus boost the immune system.
Dosage and Administration: The amount of Caripill syrup to be administered should be as advised by the paediatrician. In general, the dosage depends on the child’s age and the severity of the disease, as well as the individual characteristics of the child’s body. Parents should give the syrup to the child and make sure that the child takes the whole dose as prescribed by the doctor.
2. Papaya Leaf Syrup
Caripill syrup is another syrup prepared from the leaves of the papaya plant and like papaya leaf syrup, is also used to increase platelet count. Papaya leaf extract contains a lot of nutrients and enzymes that are useful in boosting the production of platelets and immunity.
How It Works: The extract used in the preparation of papaya leaf syrup contains some chemicals such as acetogenin that has antiviral and antimicrobial effects. These compounds assist in fighting the dengue virus and its effects on the body of the affected individual. Papaya leaf syrup also contains vitamin A, C and E which are essential in the production of blood cells and boosting of the immune system.
Dosage and Administration: Like Caripill syrup, it is recommended to seek medical advice before giving papaya leaf syrup to children. The dose usually depends on the age of the child and the platelet count of the child. It is recommended that platelet count should be checked frequently when using this remedy for it to be effective.
Other Measures to Take When Caring for Kids with Dengue
- Rest and Recovery: Parents should make sure that the child gets enough rest so that the body can be able to fight the infection. Tiredness can be worsened by overexertion and this will only lead to even less energy to be used in the healing process.
- Avoid Aspirin and NSAIDs: Aspirin and other NSAIDs should be ruled out as they can cause further reduction of the platelet count and thus increase the risk of bleeding.
- Regular Monitoring: It is important to monitor the child’s condition very closely. If there are indications of serious symptoms like persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, or bleeding, then it is advisable to seek medical help. Follow-ups with the healthcare provider are conducted to ensure that the platelet count is well checked and also to monitor the child’s recovery.
Conclusion
It is crucial to maintain the right platelet count in children affected by dengue to avoid complications and fast recovery. Although medical treatment is the mainstay of dengue treatment, remedies such as Caripill syrup and papaya leaf syrup can be of help in increasing platelet count. Parents should closely monitor the child’s health, feed and water the child adequately and seek medical advice on the best course of action. When proper care is taken and the right treatment administered, severe dengue can be prevented hence ensuring a safer period of recovery for children.
