Tanya Dutt

Experiencing Bladder Issues And Blurred Vision? Early Signs Of MS Could Guide Treatment

Multiple Sclerosis

New research indicates that two early symptoms of <span>multiple sclerosis</span> (MS)—blurred vision and sphincter dysfunction (affecting bladder and/or bowel control)—could predict how rapidly the disease will progress, potentially guiding more effective treatment strategies.

According to the study published in Brain Medicine by a team led by Dr. João Pedro Gonçalves from the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil, MS patients experiencing these symptoms early in their diagnosis may be at a higher risk for developing severe disabilities over time.

“This information could be crucial for healthcare providers in determining initial treatment strategies and monitoring protocols,” Gonçalves noted.

The research involved tracking the initial symptoms of 195 MS patients and their later functional outcomes using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), a common tool for measuring disability in MS. The results were telling: patients with early blurred vision were 20% more likely to face worse long-term outcomes, while those with early sphincter dysfunction were 24.5% more prone to severe disability.

The study suggests that these symptoms could indicate more significant damage to the central nervous system, though further research is needed to confirm these findings and their potential implications for MS treatment.

<h2>Warning Signs of MS Your Body Might Be Sending</h2>

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. While the disease can progress differently in each individual, certain warning signs may indicate the onset of MS and the need for medical attention.

Blurry or double vision is often one of the earliest signs of MS. It occurs when inflammation affects the optic nerve, leading to impaired vision. Patients may experience difficulty focusing or notice sudden changes in their eyesight.

<strong>2. Sphincter Dysfunction</strong> 

Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowel can be an early indicator of MS. This can manifest as frequent urination, urgency, or even incontinence. Bowel dysfunction is also possible, though less common.

Persistent and overwhelming fatigue is a hallmark of MS, often unrelated to physical activity. This fatigue can affect daily functioning and is a significant early warning sign of the disease.

<strong>4. Numbness or Tingling</strong> 

MS can cause sensations of numbness or tingling, particularly in the face, arms, legs, or fingers. This occurs due to damage to the nerves responsible for transmitting signals to different parts of the body.

Weakness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, or coordination problems may signal early MS. This is due to nerve damage affecting muscle control.

Some people with MS experience problems with memory, concentration, and processing information. These cognitive difficulties can be subtle but may become more noticeable as the disease progresses.

<h2>What to Do if You Notice Symptoms</h2>

If you experience any of these warning signs, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment of MS can help manage symptoms and potentially slow disease progression. Recognizing these symptoms early—especially those like blurred vision and sphincter dysfunction—can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.

The findings from this study offer hope that by identifying patients at higher risk for severe disability early on, more aggressive intervention can potentially alter the disease course for the better.

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New research indicates that two early symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS)—blurred vision and sphincter dysfunction (affecting bladder and/or bowel control)—could predict how rapidly the disease will progress, potentially guiding more effective treatment strategies.According to the study published in Brain Medicine by a team led by Dr. João Pedro Gonçalves from the Federal University of Bahia, Brazil, MS patients experiencing these symptoms early in their diagnosis may be at a higher risk for developing severe disabilities over time.“This information could be crucial for healthcare providers in determining initial treatment strategies and monitoring protocols,” Gonçalves noted.The research involved tracking the initial symptoms of 195 MS patients and their later functional outcomes using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), a common tool for measuring disability in MS. The results were telling: patients with early blurred vision were 20% more likely to face worse long-term outcomes, while those with early sphincter dysfunction were 24.5% more prone to severe disability.The study suggests that these symptoms could indicate more significant damage to the central nervous system, though further research is needed to confirm these findings and their potential implications for MS treatment.Warning Signs of MS Your Body Might Be SendingMultiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system, leading to a range of neurological symptoms. While the disease can progress differently in each individual, certain warning signs may indicate the onset of MS and the need for medical attention.1. Blurred Vision Blurry or double vision is often one of the earliest signs of MS. It occurs when inflammation affects the optic nerve, leading to impaired vision. Patients may experience difficulty focusing or notice sudden changes in their eyesight.2. Sphincter Dysfunction Difficulty controlling the bladder or bowel can be an early indicator of MS. This can manifest as frequent urination, urgency, or even incontinence. Bowel dysfunction is also possible, though less common.3. FatiguePersistent and overwhelming fatigue is a hallmark of MS, often unrelated to physical activity. This fatigue can affect daily functioning and is a significant early warning sign of the disease.4. Numbness or Tingling MS can cause sensations of numbness or tingling, particularly in the face, arms, legs, or fingers. This occurs due to damage to the nerves responsible for transmitting signals to different parts of the body.5. Muscle Weakness Weakness in the arms or legs, difficulty walking, or coordination problems may signal early MS. This is due to nerve damage affecting muscle control.6. Cognitive Issues Some people with MS experience problems with memory, concentration, and processing information. These cognitive difficulties can be subtle but may become more noticeable as the disease progresses.What to Do if You Notice SymptomsIf you experience any of these warning signs, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment of MS can help manage symptoms and potentially slow disease progression. Recognizing these symptoms early—especially those like blurred vision and sphincter dysfunction—can lead to better treatment outcomes and improved quality of life.The findings from this study offer hope that by identifying patients at higher risk for severe disability early on, more aggressive intervention can potentially alter the disease course for the better.

experiencing bladder issues and blurred vision? early signs of ms could guide treatment

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Ishita Roy

Tuberculosis detected in a Portland middle school student

Health & Wellness

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Dengue Fever During Pregnancy Can Affect Your Baby's Health  For First 3 Years

dengue fever during pregnancy can affect your baby's health  for first 3 years

The Multnomah County Health Department (MCHD) on Thursday confirmed one case of <span>tuberculosis</span> at Portland's Lane Middle School. As per the Oregon Health Authority data, in 2024, 87 cases of tuberculosis were reported in Oregon, which meant it was spreading at the rate of 2.1 cases for ever 100,000 Oregon residents. 

“Tuberculosis is a bacteria that spreads through close face-to-face contact with an infectious individual. It is curable with medication. Because the infection progresses slowly, it’s important to be treated to prevent serious illness,” the health department said in a statement.

The person who is reported to have tuberculosis may have been contagious between September 3, 2024 to May 1, 2025. The person may also have exposed others to <span>TB</span>, said the MCHD. 

“This particular individual had symptoms that were kind of mild for a while and got worse. It was eventually diagnosed like a week ago, said Dr. Richard Bruno, Health Officer with the Multnomah County Health Department.

The Health Department's Communicable Disease Team is now looking to start for a contact investigation that will help them identify individuals who may have come to contact with the person infected. The exposed individuals have also been contacted by the Health Department via an email letter. 

For now, the Health Department has also recommended Lane Middle School parents to be lookout for TB symptoms and report if any. The symptoms include:

<ul><li>Persistent cough lasting 3+ weeks</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>Blood</li><li>Phlegm</li><li>Unexplained weight loss</li></ul>

The Health Department has also said that it will provide free blood tests to the school community in the coming weeks. Their efforts have made them optimistic that this will prevent a community spread. 

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), TB is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that most often affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when people with TB cough, sneeze or spit.

As per the 2017 study, titled The History of Tuberculosis: from the first historical records to the isolation of Koch's bacillus published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene, TB happens due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT), which lasts throughout the life course and determines the formation of tubercles in different parts of the body. MT has ancient origins and have survived over 70,000 years. This also infects 2 billion people worldwide, with 10.4 million new cases each year. It is also responsible for 1.4 million deaths.

<ul><li>A cough that lasts more than three weeks</li><li>Coughing up blood or phlegm</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>Fever</li><li>Chills</li><li>Night sweats</li><li>Weight loss</li><li>Loss of appetite</li><li>Weakness or fatigue</li><li>Feeling generally unwell</li></ul>

<h4>Severe Symptoms may also include:</h4>

<ul><li>Swollen glands</li><li>Body aches and pains</li><li>Swollen joints or ankles</li><li>Tummy or pelvic pain</li><li>Constipation</li><li>Dark or cloudy urine</li><li>Headache</li><li>Being sick</li><li>Feeling confused</li><li>A stiff neck</li></ul>

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The Multnomah County Health Department (MCHD) on Thursday confirmed one case of tuberculosis at Portland's Lane Middle School. As per the Oregon Health Authority data, in 2024, 87 cases of tuberculosis were reported in Oregon, which meant it was spreading at the rate of 2.1 cases for ever 100,000 Oregon residents. “Tuberculosis is a bacteria that spreads through close face-to-face contact with an infectious individual. It is curable with medication. Because the infection progresses slowly, it’s important to be treated to prevent serious illness,” the health department said in a statement.The person who is reported to have tuberculosis may have been contagious between September 3, 2024 to May 1, 2025. The person may also have exposed others to TB, said the MCHD. “This particular individual had symptoms that were kind of mild for a while and got worse. It was eventually diagnosed like a week ago, said Dr. Richard Bruno, Health Officer with the Multnomah County Health Department.What Is Happening Now?The Health Department's Communicable Disease Team is now looking to start for a contact investigation that will help them identify individuals who may have come to contact with the person infected. The exposed individuals have also been contacted by the Health Department via an email letter. For now, the Health Department has also recommended Lane Middle School parents to be lookout for TB symptoms and report if any. The symptoms include:Persistent cough lasting 3+ weeksChest painBloodPhlegmUnexplained weight lossThe Health Department has also said that it will provide free blood tests to the school community in the coming weeks. Their efforts have made them optimistic that this will prevent a community spread. What Is Tuberculosis?As per the World Health Organization (WHO), TB is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that most often affects the lungs. It spreads through the air when people with TB cough, sneeze or spit.As per the 2017 study, titled The History of Tuberculosis: from the first historical records to the isolation of Koch's bacillus published in the Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene, TB happens due to Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT), which lasts throughout the life course and determines the formation of tubercles in different parts of the body. MT has ancient origins and have survived over 70,000 years. This also infects 2 billion people worldwide, with 10.4 million new cases each year. It is also responsible for 1.4 million deaths.Common Symptoms Include:A cough that lasts more than three weeksCoughing up blood or phlegmChest painFeverChillsNight sweatsWeight lossLoss of appetiteWeakness or fatigueFeeling generally unwellSevere Symptoms may also include:Swollen glandsBody aches and painsSwollen joints or anklesTummy or pelvic painConstipationDark or cloudy urineHeadacheBeing sickFeeling confusedA stiff neck

tuberculosis case prompts health measures at portland middle school

National Dengue Day 2025: Theme, Importance, Significance, and Origin

National Dengue Day 2025

Think Mosquitoes Bite You More Than Others? 5 Weird Biological Reasons Why

think mosquitoes bite you more than others? 5 weird biological reasons why

Every year on May 16, India observes <span>National Dengue Day</span>. This day raises awareness about the growing threat of <span>dengue</span> fever, especially during the monsoon season. Usually, it is during the monsoon that due to stagnant water, mosquito breeding increases. The government also aims to highlight the importance of prevention, public participation for awareness, as well as timely medical care to control the spread of the disease.

<h4><span rel="noindex">National Dengue Day 2025</span> Theme:</h4>

Each year, a unique theme is observed in order to raise awareness. This year, the main theme is people-led prevention. The theme is : Act Early, Prevent Dengue: Clean Surroundings, Healthy Living.

The Ministry of Health designated May 16 as National Dengue Day in 2010. This was done to intervene when dengue cases increased throughout the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons.

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), "Dengue epidemics tend to have seasonal patterns, with transmission often peaking during and after rainy seasons. There are several factors contributing to this increase, and they include high mosquito population levels, susceptibility to circulating serotypes, favourable air temperatures, precipitation and humidity, all of which affect the reproduction and feeding patterns of mosquito populations, as well as the dengue virus incubation period. Lack of proactive control interventions and staff are some of the other challenges."

Due to climate change, monsoon has arrived early, thus the Union Health Ministry has directed all air, sea, and land ports across the country to step up surveillance for vector-borne diseases. Authorities have been asked to strengthen preventive and control measures to curb the spread of infections such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever.

The advisory comes amid concerns over rising cases during the rainy season, a period that typically sees a surge in mosquito breeding and transmission. India continues to report a significant number of cases and deaths linked to vector-borne illnesses each year, making early intervention and preparedness critical.

As per a 2012 study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, the official journal of the Indian Council of Medical Research, titled Dengue in India, notes that it was in 1780 when the first epidemic of clinical dengue-like illness was recorded in Madras (now Chennai). The first virologically proved epidemic of dengue fever occurred in Calcutta (now Kolkata) and the Eastern Coast of India in 1963-64.

However, during the last 50 years, notes the study, a large number of physicians have treated and described dengue diseases in India, but the scientific studies which address problems with regard to the disease may have been limited.

The study notes that Dengue is an acute viral infection with potential fatal complications. It was first referred to as "water poison" associated with flying insects in a Chinese medical encyclopedia in 992 from the Jin Dynasty.

The word "dengue" is derived from the Swahili phrase Ka-dinga pepo, which means "cramp-like seizure". The first clinically recognized dengue epidemics occurred simultaneously in Asia, Africa, and North America in the 1780s.

As per Global Medicine, the first clinical case report dates from 1789 of 1780 epidemic in Philadelphia is by Benjamin Rush, who coined the term “break bone fever” because of the symptoms of myalgia and arthralgia.

As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dengue viruses usually spread to people through the bites of infected Aedes species mosquitoes. This mosquito bites a person infected with the dengue virus and then becomes infected. The infected mosquito then bites people and infects them with the dengue virus.

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Every year on May 16, India observes National Dengue Day. This day raises awareness about the growing threat of dengue fever, especially during the monsoon season. Usually, it is during the monsoon that due to stagnant water, mosquito breeding increases. The government also aims to highlight the importance of prevention, public participation for awareness, as well as timely medical care to control the spread of the disease.National Dengue Day 2025 Theme:Each year, a unique theme is observed in order to raise awareness. This year, the main theme is people-led prevention. The theme is : Act Early, Prevent Dengue: Clean Surroundings, Healthy Living.Origin of National Dengue DayThe Ministry of Health designated May 16 as National Dengue Day in 2010. This was done to intervene when dengue cases increased throughout the pre-monsoon and monsoon seasons.As per the World Health Organization (WHO), "Dengue epidemics tend to have seasonal patterns, with transmission often peaking during and after rainy seasons. There are several factors contributing to this increase, and they include high mosquito population levels, susceptibility to circulating serotypes, favourable air temperatures, precipitation and humidity, all of which affect the reproduction and feeding patterns of mosquito populations, as well as the dengue virus incubation period. Lack of proactive control interventions and staff are some of the other challenges."Dengue And India: SignificanceDue to climate change, monsoon has arrived early, thus the Union Health Ministry has directed all air, sea, and land ports across the country to step up surveillance for vector-borne diseases. Authorities have been asked to strengthen preventive and control measures to curb the spread of infections such as dengue, chikungunya, Zika, and yellow fever. The advisory comes amid concerns over rising cases during the rainy season, a period that typically sees a surge in mosquito breeding and transmission. India continues to report a significant number of cases and deaths linked to vector-borne illnesses each year, making early intervention and preparedness critical.Dengue and India: HistoryAs per a 2012 study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research, the official journal of the Indian Council of Medical Research, titled Dengue in India, notes that it was in 1780 when the first epidemic of clinical dengue-like illness was recorded in Madras (now Chennai). The first virologically proved epidemic of dengue fever occurred in Calcutta (now Kolkata) and the Eastern Coast of India in 1963-64.However, during the last 50 years, notes the study, a large number of physicians have treated and described dengue diseases in India, but the scientific studies which address problems with regard to the disease may have been limited.What is Dengue?The study notes that Dengue is an acute viral infection with potential fatal complications. It was first referred to as "water poison" associated with flying insects in a Chinese medical encyclopedia in 992 from the Jin Dynasty.The word "dengue" is derived from the Swahili phrase Ka-dinga pepo, which means "cramp-like seizure". The first clinically recognized dengue epidemics occurred simultaneously in Asia, Africa, and North America in the 1780s.As per Global Medicine, the first clinical case report dates from 1789 of 1780 epidemic in Philadelphia is by Benjamin Rush, who coined the term “break bone fever” because of the symptoms of myalgia and arthralgia.How Does Dengue Happen?As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), dengue viruses usually spread to people through the bites of infected Aedes species mosquitoes. This mosquito bites a person infected with the dengue virus and then becomes infected. The infected mosquito then bites people and infects them with the dengue virus.

national dengue day 2025: theme, importance, significance, and origin

Every year, May 16 is <span>National Dengue Day</span>, a public health initiative that aims to bring attention to one of the globe's most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral diseases. But as the limelight is once again back on dengue prevention and control, a new study is changing the conversation from the short-term risk of dengue to the insidious, long-term damage it can inflict on the future generation.

A recent study published has highlighted an underemphasized but very important issue of maternal health: the long-term effect of <span>dengue fever in pregnancy</span> on newborns. Although <span>dengue fever</span> is a well-documented mosquito-transmitted disease endemic to tropical and subtropical parts of the world, the novel evidence points toward its long-lasting effects on pregnancy outcomes and children's health till the age of three years.

As the world fights rising dengue epidemics fueled in part by climate change and urbanization—knowing how this virus impacts pregnant women and their unborn babies is more critical than ever.

Dengue fever infects almost half of the world's population. In 2023 alone, over three million cases were reported in the Americas, triggering alarms over its explosive growth. Notwithstanding its ubiquity, risks of dengue fever in pregnancy have not been given sufficient attentionuntil now.

Scientists from the UK's Universities of Birmingham and Surrey, employing a huge data set from Brazil's Minas Gerais state, have presented a strong argument for the long-term effect of the virus. The study, published in the American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, points out how even uncomplicated dengue infection in pregnancy has significantly affected the course of a child's life.

The research followed more than 300,000 mother-child pairs from 2011 to 2017. Researchers matched birth certificates, hospitalization rates, and reports of dengue infection to determine how maternal infection influenced early childhood health outcomes.

The study’s findings draw a sharp line between <span>maternal dengue infection</span> and significant early-life health risks for children. Researchers discovered that children born to mothers who contracted dengue during pregnancy faced a 27% higher risk of hospitalization from birth to age three. Alarmingly, this risk peaked in the second year of life, with a 76% increase in hospitalization during that period alone — a stage critical for early development. In addition to hospitalization risks, birth weight outcomes were notably affected. Babies born to infected mothers were 15% more likely to have low birth weight, with more severe outcomes indicating a 67% higher chance of very low birth weight and a staggering 133% increased risk of extremely low birth weight. 

These outcomes are medically significant, as birth weight is a well-established predictor of both immediate neonatal health and long-term developmental and socioeconomic trajectories.

These staggering statistics highlight not only the immediate health consequences for newborns but also the possibility of long-term developmental and socio-economic issues.

<h2>Why Low Birth Weight Is A Sign Of Something Serious?</h2>

Low birth weight is a documented risk factor for many health complications throughout an individual's lifetime. Underweight babies are at higher risk of:

<ul><li>Delayed physical and intellectual development</li><li>Increased susceptibility to infections and chronic diseases</li><li>Greater risk of metabolic disorders in adulthood</li></ul>

Dr. Livia Menezes, co-author of the University of Birmingham study, underscored this association, adding, "These birth outcomes can have longer-term impacts—for example, previous research has shown that low birth weight can negatively affect socio-economic outcomes and health in adulthood."

<h2>Dengue Transmission and Symptoms During Pregnancy</h2>

Dengue fever is due to the dengue virus and spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, predominantly Aedes aegypti. Pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, are highly susceptible as they can vertically transmit the virus to their fetus.

The signs of dengue fever during pregnancy vary from mild to severe and can include:

<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Headache and orbital pain</li><li>Nausea and vomiting</li><li>Rash, particularly on palms and soles</li><li>Muscle and joint ache</li><li>Enlarged glands</li></ul>

Severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever) may cause internal bleeding, organ failure, and death when left untreated. Warning signs of severe dengue are persistent vomiting, severe stomach pain, bleeding gums, and inability to breathe.

Historically limited to the tropics, dengue fever is increasingly spreading thanks to global warming. Increasing temperatures and urbanisation have enabled the Aedes mosquito to flourish in southern Europe and even US states.

As economist and co-author Dr. Martin Foureaux Koppensteiner of the University of Surrey describes, the consequences extend beyond personal health: "These adverse birth outcomes… have a much broader effect on communities where dengue is endemic. Hospitalization and long-term health problems caused by maternal infection all cost something—one that might be avoided or at least reduced with greater awareness and better policy."

Furthermore, healthcare systems need to plan for long-term pediatric care in children who were exposed to dengue in utero. These include monitoring for birth weights, developmental milestones, and providing access to early interventions when necessary.

These research findings present the global health community with a urgent wake-up call. Dengue fever is no mere seasonal plague—it is an interrupter of a child's life from an early age. With its spread and underemphasized consequences, especially among pregnant women, dengue needs to gain a greater space on the agenda of maternal health.

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dengue hospitalization infants

Every year, May 16 is National Dengue Day, a public health initiative that aims to bring attention to one of the globe's most rapidly spreading mosquito-borne viral diseases. But as the limelight is once again back on dengue prevention and control, a new study is changing the conversation from the short-term risk of dengue to the insidious, long-term damage it can inflict on the future generation.A recent study published has highlighted an underemphasized but very important issue of maternal health: the long-term effect of dengue fever in pregnancy on newborns. Although dengue fever is a well-documented mosquito-transmitted disease endemic to tropical and subtropical parts of the world, the novel evidence points toward its long-lasting effects on pregnancy outcomes and children's health till the age of three years.As the world fights rising dengue epidemics fueled in part by climate change and urbanization—knowing how this virus impacts pregnant women and their unborn babies is more critical than ever.Dengue fever infects almost half of the world's population. In 2023 alone, over three million cases were reported in the Americas, triggering alarms over its explosive growth. Notwithstanding its ubiquity, risks of dengue fever in pregnancy have not been given sufficient attentionuntil now.Scientists from the UK's Universities of Birmingham and Surrey, employing a huge data set from Brazil's Minas Gerais state, have presented a strong argument for the long-term effect of the virus. The study, published in the American Economic Journal: Applied Economics, points out how even uncomplicated dengue infection in pregnancy has significantly affected the course of a child's life.The research followed more than 300,000 mother-child pairs from 2011 to 2017. Researchers matched birth certificates, hospitalization rates, and reports of dengue infection to determine how maternal infection influenced early childhood health outcomes.The study’s findings draw a sharp line between maternal dengue infection and significant early-life health risks for children. Researchers discovered that children born to mothers who contracted dengue during pregnancy faced a 27% higher risk of hospitalization from birth to age three. Alarmingly, this risk peaked in the second year of life, with a 76% increase in hospitalization during that period alone — a stage critical for early development. In addition to hospitalization risks, birth weight outcomes were notably affected. Babies born to infected mothers were 15% more likely to have low birth weight, with more severe outcomes indicating a 67% higher chance of very low birth weight and a staggering 133% increased risk of extremely low birth weight. These outcomes are medically significant, as birth weight is a well-established predictor of both immediate neonatal health and long-term developmental and socioeconomic trajectories.These staggering statistics highlight not only the immediate health consequences for newborns but also the possibility of long-term developmental and socio-economic issues.Why Low Birth Weight Is A Sign Of Something Serious?Low birth weight is a documented risk factor for many health complications throughout an individual's lifetime. Underweight babies are at higher risk of:Delayed physical and intellectual developmentIncreased susceptibility to infections and chronic diseasesGreater risk of metabolic disorders in adulthoodDr. Livia Menezes, co-author of the University of Birmingham study, underscored this association, adding, "These birth outcomes can have longer-term impacts—for example, previous research has shown that low birth weight can negatively affect socio-economic outcomes and health in adulthood."Dengue Transmission and Symptoms During PregnancyDengue fever is due to the dengue virus and spread by the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, predominantly Aedes aegypti. Pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, are highly susceptible as they can vertically transmit the virus to their fetus.The signs of dengue fever during pregnancy vary from mild to severe and can include:FeverHeadache and orbital painNausea and vomitingRash, particularly on palms and solesMuscle and joint acheEnlarged glandsSevere dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever) may cause internal bleeding, organ failure, and death when left untreated. Warning signs of severe dengue are persistent vomiting, severe stomach pain, bleeding gums, and inability to breathe.Historically limited to the tropics, dengue fever is increasingly spreading thanks to global warming. Increasing temperatures and urbanisation have enabled the Aedes mosquito to flourish in southern Europe and even US states.As economist and co-author Dr. Martin Foureaux Koppensteiner of the University of Surrey describes, the consequences extend beyond personal health: "These adverse birth outcomes… have a much broader effect on communities where dengue is endemic. Hospitalization and long-term health problems caused by maternal infection all cost something—one that might be avoided or at least reduced with greater awareness and better policy."Furthermore, healthcare systems need to plan for long-term pediatric care in children who were exposed to dengue in utero. These include monitoring for birth weights, developmental milestones, and providing access to early interventions when necessary.These research findings present the global health community with a urgent wake-up call. Dengue fever is no mere seasonal plague—it is an interrupter of a child's life from an early age. With its spread and underemphasized consequences, especially among pregnant women, dengue needs to gain a greater space on the agenda of maternal health.

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Experiencing Bladder Issues And Blurred Vision? Early Signs Of MS Could Guide Treatment

Quick Stories

Tuberculosis Case Prompts Health Measures at Portland Middle School

National Dengue Day 2025: Theme, Importance, Significance, and Origin

Dengue Fever During Pregnancy Can Affect Your Baby's Health For First 3 Years

Health Conditions A-Z

Tuberculosis Case Prompts Health Measures at Portland Middle School

Dengue on the Rise: How Climate and Geography Are Shaping A Growing Threat

HHS and FDA Launch Operation Stroke Speed to Boost Infant Formula Quality