diet plan for dengue patient - #17833
I am really worried about my uncle who just got diagnosed with dengue. Last week he started feeling super weak and had this bad fever, went to the doc, and they did some tests. Now he's in bed, and they keep saying it’s important to be careful with his diet. I heard there's a specific diet plan for dengue patient, but honestly, I have no clue what that should be. Like, should he be eating more fruits or maybe avoiding spicy food? I mean, he loves his curries, but I’m not sure if that’s ok now. I’ve been making some soup and light meals, but how do I know if that’s enough or if it's really what he needs? I've looked online a bit, but every site says something different! I really just want to make sure he’s getting the right nutrients, especially with all the talk about hydration and recovering quickly. What’s a good diet plan for dengue patients? And how soon can he start eating normally again? I just don't want to mess this up! Any tips would be really helpful. Thanks!
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Doctors' responses
When managing dengue, focusing on hydration and maintaining nutrient balance is key, given that fever and associated symptoms can lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies. First, it’s crucial to ensure adequate fluid intake; encourage water, oral rehydration solutions, clear broths, and diluted fruit juices to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance. In terms of diet, prioritize easily digestible and nutrient-rich foods. Offer him light meals, including soft-cooked rice, soups, and stews, as these are gentle on the stomach and typically well-tolerated. Incorporating foods high in vitamin C, like oranges, lemons, and papaya, can support his immune system. Papaya leaves are sometimes recommended in traditional remedies, but there’s limited evidence on their effectiveness in platelet count improvement, so it’s best to consult his healthcare provider before trying them. Protein intake shouldn’t be overlooked, so consider including well-cooked eggs and chicken to help recovery. As for spicy foods like curries, it’s wise to minimize these for now since they can be harsh on the digestive system, particularly if he’s experiencing nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort. Over time, as symptoms improve and under a doctor’s supervision, he can slowly return to his regular diet. Crucially, watch for warning signs like severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or persistent vomiting, as these require prompt medical attention. Always keep his healthcare provider updated on his condition, especially if new symptoms appear. By ensuring hydration and focusing on a gentle, nutrient-dense diet, you’ll be supporting his recovery.
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