Dengue fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes, specifically the Aedes species, which are most active during the day. It’s a common disease in tropical and subtropical regions, including parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. The symptoms of dengue fever can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can lead to life-threatening complications. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for dengue fever is essential for managing the disease effectively.
We’ll explain what causes dengue fever, the symptoms to watch out for, and what you should do if you think you have been infected. If you experience symptoms of dengue fever, seek help from a qualified medical professional via the Virtual Doctors App or download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play to book an appointment.
What Causes Dengue Fever?
Dengue fever is caused by one of four closely related dengue viruses (DEN-1, DEN-2, DEN-3, and DEN-4). It is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito, which breeds in stagnant water and is most active during early morning and late afternoon.
The mosquito becomes infected when it bites a person who already has the dengue virus in their bloodstream. Once the mosquito is infected, it can spread the virus to other people through bites. Dengue fever is not contagious and cannot be spread directly from person to person.
What Are the Symptoms of Dengue Fever?
Symptoms of dengue fever typically begin four to ten days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The disease can present with a wide range of symptoms, from mild flu-like symptoms to severe complications. It is important to recognize these symptoms early to seek timely medical care.
Here are the common symptoms of dengue fever:
1. High Fever
The most noticeable symptom of dengue fever is a sudden onset of high fever, often reaching temperatures as high as 104°F (40°C). This fever can last for several days and may come and go.
2. Severe Headache
Along with fever, individuals with dengue often experience intense headaches. The pain is typically felt in the forehead and can be debilitating.
3. Pain Behind the Eyes
Another common symptom is a sharp pain behind the eyes, which worsens with eye movement. This symptom, combined with headache, is sometimes called “retro-orbital pain.”
4. Joint and Muscle Pain
Dengue fever is often referred to as “breakbone fever” because of the severe joint and muscle pain it can cause. This pain can make movement uncomfortable and significantly affect a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
5. Fatigue and Weakness
People with dengue fever often feel extremely tired and weak, even after the fever has subsided. This fatigue can persist for weeks after the initial infection.
6. Nausea and Vomiting
Many individuals experience nausea and may vomit during the course of the illness. These symptoms, along with fever and pain, contribute to a general feeling of being unwell.
7. Rash
A skin rash is another common symptom, appearing a few days after the fever starts. The rash may spread to most parts of the body and can be itchy. In some cases, the rash may appear as red spots or patches.
Severe Dengue (Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever)
In some cases, dengue fever can progress to a more severe form known as severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. This is a medical emergency and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of severe dengue include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from the nose, gums, or under the skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue and restlessness
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Severe dengue requires hospitalization and intensive care.
When to Seek Medical Help: Symptoms of Dengue Fever
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially high fever, severe headache, or muscle pain, it’s important to consult a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent the disease from progressing to severe dengue.
For professional medical advice and treatment, consult a doctor on the Virtual Doctors App or download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play to book an appointment. Getting timely medical care is essential for managing dengue fever effectively.
How Is Dengue Fever Diagnosed?
Dengue fever is diagnosed through a combination of your symptoms and laboratory tests. Doctors will likely order blood tests to check for the presence of the virus or antibodies. These tests can help confirm whether you have dengue fever or another illness with similar symptoms.
How Is Dengue Fever Treated?
There is no specific antiviral treatment for dengue fever, but doctors focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Here are some common treatment approaches:
- Rest: Patients with dengue fever are advised to rest as much as possible to allow the body to fight off the infection.
- Hydration: It is crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to replace those lost through fever, vomiting, and sweating. Dehydration can worsen the condition, so intravenous fluids may be necessary in severe cases.
- Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) can help reduce fever and alleviate pain. Avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen, as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
Dengue fever is a serious illness that requires prompt medical attention. Understanding the symptoms can help you recognize the infection early and seek the appropriate care. If you or someone you know is showing signs of dengue fever, such as high fever, severe headache, joint pain, or rash, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately.
For expert medical advice, book an appointment with a qualified doctor on the Virtual Doctors App or download the Virtual Doctors Healthplus App on Google Play to access healthcare quickly and conveniently.