Dengue is a disease that, year after year, raises an alarm throughout Brazil. Transmitted by the bite of the mosquito Aedes aegypti, its epidemics represent a constant challenge for public health and leave a trail of concern, pain, and uncertainty for thousands of families. Facing a dengue diagnosis means dealing not only with debilitating physical symptoms but also with a strong emotional upheaval.

The intense feeling of malaise, body aches, high fever, and fear of complications create a significant picture of stress and anxiety. Often, this emotional burden is underestimated, but it plays a crucial role in how each person experiences the disease. Pain perception, sleep quality, and even the willingness to follow treatment can be profoundly affected by the patient’s mental state.

At this point, an integrated view of health becomes fundamental. Understanding dengue the disease goes beyond knowing the virus and the vector. It involves understanding the human being behind the diagnosis, with their reactions, fears, and automatic thoughts that can intensify suffering. What to do when the mind seems to work against the body during recovery?

At the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis, we start from the principle that everything that stress and anxiety can worsen, scientific hypnosis can help. Far from miraculous promises, hypnosis emerges as a valuable clinical tool, based on evidence, capable of assisting in managing symptoms such as pain, nausea, and general discomfort, promoting well-being and enhancing conventional health treatments.

This article offers a complete guide on dengue, addressing its biological aspects and medical treatments as well as the powerful connection between mind and body. For you, who seek effective ways to help people, we will explore how managing emotional reactions, with the support of techniques like scientific hypnosis, can transform a patient’s recovery journey, offering more comfort and quality of life when it is most needed.

What is Dengue and How Does it Manifest in the Body

Dengue is an acute febrile illness caused by an arbovirus, which is part of the Flaviviridae family. The main vector of this disease is the mosquito Aedes aegypti, which reproduces in stagnant water and is most active during the day. This mosquito is responsible for transmitting the dengue virus, and interestingly, there are four viral serotypes: DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3, and DENV-4. This means that after being infected by one of these serotypes, a person develops immunity only against that specific one, being able to contract the others in future infections, which can increase the risk of severe dengue.

The dengue cycle in the body begins with the bite of the infected mosquito, which introduces the virus into the bloodstream. After infection, the virus begins to multiply in the body’s cells, usually within the first 24 to 48 hours. Symptoms typically appear between 5 and 7 days after the bite, with an initial phase that can be mild, but in some cases evolves rapidly.

Below, we list the Classic Symptoms of Dengue and the Warning Signs (Severe Dengue) to facilitate the identification of the disease:

• Classic Symptoms of Dengue:
  • High fever
  • Intense headaches
  • Muscle and joint pain
  • Skin rashes
  • Nausea and vomiting
• Warning Signs (Severe Dengue):
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Persistent vomiting
  • Bleeding gums
  • Blood in urine
  • Drop in blood pressure

Identifying dengue as early as possible is essential for effective treatment and to avoid more severe complications.

Diagnosis, Prevention, and Conventional Treatments

The diagnosis of dengue is essential to understand the severity of the disease and initiate the appropriate treatment. The process usually begins with a clinical evaluation, in which the doctor examines the symptoms presented by the patient, such as high fever, headache, muscle and joint pain, as well as skin rashes. To confirm the suspicion, laboratory tests such as serology, which detects specific antibodies, and the NS1 antigen test, which identifies the presence of the virus in the blood, are performed.

Prevention is undoubtedly the most important pillar in combating dengue. By eliminating breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito, it is possible to interrupt the transmission cycle. Here are some practical actions that can be taken at home and in the community:

• Eliminate stagnant water: Containers, tires, and receptacles should be cleaned and kept dry.
• Clean gutters: Ensure that there is no accumulation of water in them.
• Water tank covers: Ensure they are well sealed.
• Use repellents: Apply mosquito-repelling products on the skin.
• Participate in community efforts: Join community initiatives to combat dengue.

When treatment is necessary, it is important to highlight that there is no specific medication to combat the dengue virus. The focus should be on relieving symptoms and ensuring intense hydration. Medications such as acetylsalicylic acid and other anti-inflammatories should be avoided, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. In some situations, vaccination may be considered as an additional tool in preventing the disease. Awareness and collective action are fundamental to effectively face dengue.

The Connection Between Stress, Anxiety, and the Experience of Dengue

When we talk about dengue, it is essential to consider not only the physical symptoms but also the emotional reactions that the diagnosis can provoke. Everything that stress and anxiety can worsen, scientific hypnosis can help. The impact of dengue on the body is significant, and debilitating symptoms such as high fever, body aches, and nausea can trigger a natural cycle of stress and anxiety. Often, the fear of complications or worsening of the disease increases this emotional sphere.

Psychosomatics teaches us that the mind and body are interconnected, and often, stress and anxiety can amplify the perception of physical symptoms. For example, when a person is anxious, their sensitivity to pain increases, leading to a condition known as hyperalgesia. This means that the pain, which is already debilitating, may feel even more intense. Additionally, fatigue and nausea may be exacerbations of this emotional response, making recovery even more challenging.

Another aspect to consider is the effect of chronic stress on the immune system. When the body is in a constant state of alert, its natural defenses may be compromised, making it more challenging to fight against the dengue virus. This scenario can create a vicious cycle: catastrophic automatic thoughts, such as “this pain will never go away” or “I will get worse,” can increase the feeling of suffering and, in turn, stress.

Thus, emotional management becomes a crucial part of holistic care for the dengue patient. Although hypnosis does not cure the disease, it can be a relevant tool to improve quality of life and increase adherence to treatment, promoting a more favorable mental environment for recovery.

Scientific Hypnosis in Managing Symptoms Associated with Dengue

Scientific hypnosis can be an effective tool in managing the symptoms associated with dengue, serving as a complement to conventional medical treatment. It is essential to emphasize that hypnosis does not cure the disease, but by focusing on the patient’s well-being, it enhances the recovery experience.

One of the most promising uses of hypnosis is pain management. Through suggestions that promote analgesia and comfort, hypnosis can help modulate the perception of bodily pain and headaches, common in dengue patients. Patients can learn to focus on more pleasant sensations, reducing the feeling of discomfort.

Additionally, anxiety reduction is an important application. Relaxation and attention-focusing techniques can help decrease the state of alertness and worry. This is especially important considering that a dengue diagnosis can be stressful. By promoting a state of calm, hypnosis helps patients better cope with the emotional challenges of the disease.

Another relevant aspect is nausea control. Hypnosis can act on controlling the vomiting reflex and the sensation of nausea, allowing the patient to feel more comfortable and less distressed. Through specific suggestions, it is possible to create a more favorable response from the body to these unpleasant sensations.

Finally, improving sleep is essential in recovery. The relaxation state promoted by hypnosis facilitates more restorative sleep, which is much needed for healing. Learning to reinterpret the body’s signals in a less threatening way can contribute to a more positive recovery cycle.

These practices should be applied by qualified health professionals, ensuring ethical and safe use of hypnosis in treating dengue symptoms. Changing automatic thoughts by focusing on well-being can be a differentiator on the path to healing.

Conclusion

Throughout this article, we explored dengue the disease in its multiple facets. We saw that it is a serious condition that requires medical attention, correct diagnosis, and above all, prevention. Combating the Aedes aegypti mosquito and following medical guidelines for rest and hydration are fundamental pillars for a safe and effective recovery. These are the undeniable scientific truths that should guide all health actions.

However, the journey of those facing dengue is not composed solely of physical symptoms. The emotional impact — fear, anxiety, and stress — is a real and significant component of suffering. As we have seen, the mind and body are intrinsically linked, and the emotional state can modulate pain perception, the intensity of discomfort, and the overall quality of life during the illness.

This is where scientific hypnosis, aligned with evidence-based practices, reveals its immense value. It does not aim to cure dengue but to care for the person who has dengue. By empowering a health professional, hypnosis becomes an ethical and powerful tool to help patients manage pain, control anxiety, sleep better, and essentially, navigate such a challenging period with more comfort and tranquility.

We believe that every health professional can enhance their results by integrating scientific hypnosis into their repertoire. It is about providing truly holistic care that looks beyond the disease and embraces the human being in its entirety. It is science at the service of emotional well-being, strengthening the patient so that conventional treatments have the best possible effect.

Are you interested in learning scientific hypnosis to apply professionally? To enhance your results in your current profession or even to have a new profession? Explore the training and postgraduate courses in evidence-based hypnosis from the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis through the link: https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main symptoms of dengue I should be aware of?

The classic symptoms of dengue include high fever, intense headaches, muscle and joint pain, skin rashes, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to monitor these signs, as early detection can facilitate treatment. If you notice severe symptoms, such as intense abdominal pain or bleeding gums, seek medical attention immediately.

How can I prevent dengue in my home and community?

Dengue prevention involves eliminating breeding grounds for the Aedes aegypti mosquito. Keep containers dry, clean gutters, use water tank covers, apply repellents, and participate in community efforts. These actions help interrupt the transmission cycle and protect the local population.

Can scientific hypnosis help in treating dengue symptoms?

Yes, scientific hypnosis is an auxiliary tool in managing dengue symptoms. Although it does not cure the disease, it helps control pain, reduce anxiety, and improve sleep quality. Health professionals can use hypnosis to provide emotional support during the patient’s recovery.

What is the relationship between stress, anxiety, and the experience of dengue?

Stress and anxiety can intensify dengue symptoms, such as pain and discomfort. This connection exists because the mind and body are interconnected, and negative emotions can amplify the perception of pain. Managing these emotions is crucial for more effective treatment and a smoother recovery.

What should I do if I suspect I have dengue?

If you suspect you have dengue, seek medical attention immediately for evaluation. Accurate diagnosis is essential and may include tests for confirmation. While waiting for the consultation, stay hydrated and avoid anti-inflammatory medications, which can worsen the condition. Prioritize rest and follow medical guidelines.