Dengue is a concerning reality in various regions, and with it comes the temptation of self-medication at the first signs of symptoms. High fever, body aches, and general malaise can lead to the search for immediate relief in familiar or readily available medications at home. However, this seemingly harmless practice hides a significant danger: self-medication in suspected dengue can worsen the disease, turning a potentially manageable situation into a life-threatening one.

Many people, in an attempt to alleviate discomfort, resort to anti-inflammatories, analgesics, and other drugs without professional guidance. What is often unknown is that certain components of these medications can negatively interfere with the course of the dengue virus infection. They can mask important symptoms, complicate accurate diagnosis, and crucially, increase the risk of serious complications, such as hemorrhages and other severe manifestations of the disease.

The impact of stress and anxiety generated by dengue symptoms should not be underestimated. The natural concern for health and the desire for quick recovery can drive hasty decisions, such as self-medication. Understanding how our thoughts and emotions influence our actions is crucial, especially in health contexts. The interpretation we make of our symptoms and our surrounding environment can lead us to automatic behaviors that, in this case, are harmful.

It is essential to be aware that not every pain or fever medication is safe during a dengue infection. The lack of correct information and the underestimation of the risks associated with self-medication contribute to a scenario where an individual’s health is unnecessarily put at risk. Qualified medical guidance is the only safe path for the proper management of dengue, from suspicion to complete recovery.

This article aims to clarify the dangers of self-medication in suspected dengue cases, detail which substances should be avoided, and reinforce the vital importance of medical supervision. Correct information is a powerful tool for protecting your health and well-being, aligned with a conscious and responsible approach to the disease.

Dengue: Understanding the Disease and Its Warning Signs

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by the bites of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This insect breeds in stagnant water, becoming a major vector for other viruses, such as Zika and chikungunya. Dengue is a public health problem in many tropical and subtropical countries, and its proper recognition and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.

The most common symptoms of dengue include:

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Muscle and joint pain
• Rash or skin eruptions
• Nausea and vomiting

It is also important to be alert to warning signs that indicate the need for urgent medical attention, such as:

• Severe abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• Bleeding from gums or nose
• Extreme weakness or fatigue
• Difficulty breathing

Dengue classified as “classic” presents milder symptoms, but the “severe” form (previously known as hemorrhagic dengue) can lead to serious complications, such as bleeding and shock. Self-medication in both cases is extremely dangerous, as it can worsen the condition. Medications like aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can increase the risk of bleeding, masking the disease’s progression. Therefore, medical supervision is essential as soon as the first signs of dengue appear.

Self-Medication in Dengue: Risks and Dangerous Medications

Self-medication in suspected dengue situations is a topic that requires attention. Using medications without guidance can lead to serious consequences. Among the most common drugs that can worsen dengue are acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids.

Aspirin and other salicylates, for example, are known for their anticoagulant action. This means they can increase the risk of bleeding in patients with dengue, who already have a predisposition to hemorrhages due to the complex response of the body to the virus. NSAIDs—such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, and nimesulide—also prolong bleeding time, worsening this situation. These medications can mask the symptoms of the disease, leading to an underestimation of the clinical severity.

Corticosteroids, on the other hand, are frequently used in various health conditions, but their efficacy and safety in dengue cases are widely debated. Improper use can inhibit the necessary inflammatory response to combat the infection, causing the patient to focus on symptoms without treating the underlying cause.

Although paracetamol may be indicated in controlled doses by doctors, its excessive use, especially in a liver already sensitized by the infection, can lead to serious liver damage. Therefore, it is crucial to always consult a professional before using any medication. The best course of action in suspected dengue cases is to seek medical supervision.

The Mind and Dengue: Anxiety and the Impulse to Self-Medicate

Dengue is a disease that can generate fear and anxiety in people, especially when symptoms arise. Often, this emotional state can lead to the temptation to self-medicate. The search for quick relief is understandable, but it can have serious consequences. The anxiety and discomfort caused by symptoms often create a cycle of hasty thought, leading to the choice of inappropriate medications.

These impulses are often guided by automatic thoughts that do not consider the full impact of decisions. The fear of worsening the situation can cause a person to ignore medical guidance and thus choose medications that may intensify the disease. In moments of stress, the evaluation of the internal environment—such as symptoms—and the external environment—the available information—tends to be distorted. A more conscious interpretation can help avoid harmful decisions, such as self-medication.

Managing emotional responses should be a priority. Our belief is that whatever stress and anxiety can worsen, scientific hypnosis can help. Although hypnosis does not treat dengue, it can be a valuable tool for managing stress, aiding adherence to correct treatments, and avoiding self-medication. Seeking a qualified professional is essential, as evidence-based medical supervision allows for healthier and safer decisions. Remember: the safest path is always to follow the guidance of health professionals.

Conclusion

The journey through understanding the risks of self-medication in suspected dengue cases reinforces a fundamental truth: health requires responsibility and qualified information. The practice of taking medications on one’s own, especially in the face of a disease like dengue, which has particularities in its management, is a dangerous path that can lead to the worsening of the clinical picture and to severe complications, including hemorrhages and other severe forms of the disease.

We reiterate that seemingly harmless medications, such as some anti-inflammatories and acetylsalicylic acid, are contraindicated and can have devastating effects. The guidance is clear and unanimous among health authorities: at the first sign of suspected dengue, seeking a health professional is indispensable. Only a doctor can make the correct diagnosis, classify the risk, and prescribe the appropriate and safe symptomatic treatment.

Furthermore, it is important to recognize the role that stress and anxiety play in this context. Discomfort and concern about symptoms can create a cycle of automatic thoughts that drive self-medication. Understanding and managing these emotional responses, focusing on how we interpret our environment and react to it, is a crucial step. Practices that promote calm and mental clarity can assist in making more conscious decisions aligned with medical recommendations, enhancing evidence-based care.

The Brazilian Society of Hypnosis reaffirms its commitment to promoting emotional health and the ethical and scientific use of tools that can help people better cope with the challenges posed by health conditions. Although hypnosis does not treat dengue, it can be a valuable ally in managing the anxiety and stress that often accompany illness, contributing to better adherence to treatment indicated by health professionals and avoiding risky behaviors such as self-medication.

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? Check out the evidence-based hypnosis training and postgraduate programs offered by the Brazilian Society of Hypnosis at the link: https://www.hipnose.com.br/cursos/

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is self-medication dangerous in dengue and what are its risks?

Self-medication is dangerous in dengue because common medications, such as anti-inflammatories and aspirin, can worsen the disease. They increase the risk of bleeding and mask important symptoms, complicating proper diagnosis. Additionally, self-medication can transform a dengue case that could be managed into a life-or-death situation. Therefore, it is vital to obtain medical guidance at the first sign of symptoms.

Which medications should be avoided in cases of dengue?

Medications to avoid in cases of dengue include acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, and corticosteroids. These drugs can increase the risk of bleeding, mask the severity of the disease, and inhibit the body’s inflammatory response. The use of paracetamol should be done with caution and under medical guidance.

What are the warning signs that indicate severity in dengue?

Warning signs for severe dengue include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding from gums or nose, extreme weakness, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms indicate the need for urgent medical attention, as they may suggest that dengue is becoming critical and requires immediate intervention.

How can anxiety affect self-medication in dengue?

Anxiety can lead to hasty decisions, such as self-medication in cases of dengue. The fear of worsening symptoms encourages the search for immediate relief, resulting in inappropriate medication choices. This cycle of impulsive thinking can worsen the condition, which is why it is important to manage emotions and seek guidance from health professionals.

What is the best course of action when presenting symptoms of dengue?

The best course of action when presenting symptoms of dengue, such as high fever and body aches, is to seek a health professional immediately. The doctor can make an appropriate diagnosis, classify the risk of complications, and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Avoiding self-medication is crucial to prevent worsening and serious complications of the disease.