Introduction
You may have heard of dengue disease, especially at this time of year, as the monsoon season is now in full swing. But when a family member comes down with a high fever, the question that always arises is, Is it just the flu, or could it be dengue disease?
Generally, dengue fever is caused by a virus through contact with a mosquito bite. Dengue fever can range from mild to severe, and you seriously need to know dengue’s early warning signs, as it may save your life (no kidding).
In this blog, we will cover the fundamentals of dengue, the 7 main symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored, and how to react should you suspect you have dengue.
What is dengue fever?
Dengue is a viral infection transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which typically bites during the day. The virus thrives in warm, humid climates, and outbreaks often occur in urban and semi-urban areas, especially after heavy rains.
While many people recover without complications, some develop severe dengue, which can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, or even death.
That’s why early detection and timely care are so crucial.
The 7 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever
Here are seven symptoms you should be on the lookout for, especially if it is mosquito season or there is a current outbreak happening in your area:
1. High Fever (Sudden Onset)
Dengue fever typically starts with a sudden rising fever, sometimes as high as 104°F (40°C). This is not a regular viral fever; it hits fast and hard.
2. Severe Headache
The headache usually feels behind the eyes and is felt very well, sometimes lasting for a longer duration of time. This is a classic sign of dengue. If you also have a high fever, you should pay attention.
3. Muscle and Joint Pain (“Breakbone Fever”)
Dengue fever is called “breakbone fever” because of how uncomfortable the muscle, joint, and bone pain is. If the individual is struggling to move or is uniquely sore, you should pay careful attention.
4. Nausea and vomiting
Lack of appetite or nausea, or repeated vomiting, may occur. Not to mention, this signifies infection but can also lead to dehydration, which is dangerous in dengue cases.
5. Skin Rash
Your itch may start as a red, patchy rash 3-5 days after the fever starts. The rash can resemble measles or even tiny red dots. In some cases, they can itch very well and seem to spread quickly.
6. Fatigue and Weakness
It’s different than tiredness. You feel the fatigue, and it won’t go away, even after you rest. This may be a red flag. You may feel wiped out for the next couple of days or even weeks.
7. Chills and body aches
One of the earliest and most obvious symptoms of dengue that I have seen in patients is a sudden onset of chills and intense body aches. Even if the fever is high, patients often feel cold and shivery and experience deep, throbbing pain in the muscles, joints, and behind the eyes.
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When to Seek Medical Help
You should seek medical advice if:
- Fever persists for more than two days.
- You see one of the 7 warning signs above.
- The patient appears lethargic, agitated, or very weak.
- Any bleeding has occurred, even if it is minor.
Dengue should not be self-treated or waited out; it must be professionally monitored, especially in children, the elderly, and those with low immunity.
Prevention and Management Tips
While there is no vaccine for dengue fever, here is a list of prevention and supportive care options:
Prevention:
- Use of mosquito repellent and mosquito net interventions, particularly with daytime mosquitoes
- Take out stagnant water from coolers, pots, and tires (Aedes mosquitoes have specially evolved to breed only in clean water).
- If there is an outbreak, avoid mosquitoes and wear long-sleeved clothes.
- Use nets/screens on windows and doors.
If infected
- Hydration: drink water, ORS, or coconut water; stay hydrated.
- Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen, as they may increase bleeding.
- Take paracetamol (as directed) for fever.
- Follow your doctor’s orders and check the warning signs.
- Rest as much as possible.
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Conclusion
Dengue can be frightening, but knowledge is the best defense. The earlier it is caught, the better the results.
If you or someone you love has these 7 warning signs, do not panic, but do not wait either.
Your attention, care, and action can save the day.
FAQ
1. How long will it take for dengue symptoms to appear after a mosquito bite?
Typically, symptoms will show in 4 to 10 days. This period is called the incubation period, when the virus is silently multiplying in the host.
2. Can dengue fever be fatal?
Yes, and specifically, you can die from severe dengue or dengue hemorrhagic fever. However, with appropriate and timely treatment, almost everyone will recover completely.
3. Is there a vaccine for dengue fever?
Yes, a vaccine does exist, but it is not widely used in India and is specifically licensed for high-risk areas. Mosquito control is still the best prevention!
