7 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever

7 Warning Signs of Dengue Fever

• High Fever: Dengue fever typically causes a sudden, high spike in body temperature, often reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher. This high fever is one of the hallmark signs of the disease and is usually accompanied by chills, headaches, and body aches. Fevers this high can be dangerous, especially in children and the elderly, and can lead to dehydration and other complications if not managed properly.
• Severe Headache: The headaches associated with dengue fever are often described as severe, constant, and throbbing. They can be intense enough to interfere with daily activities and may worsen with movement or bright light. These headaches are thought to be caused by the immune system’s inflammatory response to the dengue virus infection.
• Rash: A characteristic rash often appears 3-4 days after the onset of fever in dengue cases. This rash typically starts as small, red spots on the chest and abdomen before spreading to the arms, legs, and face. The rash may be flat or slightly raised, and can be itchy or painless. In some cases, the rash may appear as a generalized red flush over large areas of the body.
• Muscle and Joint Pain: Dengue fever is notorious for causing severe muscle and joint pain, which can be debilitating. The technical term for this symptom is “myalgia” (muscle pain) and “arthralgia” (joint pain). The pain is often intense and can affect multiple muscle groups and joints, making it difficult to move or perform daily activities.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Many patients with dengue fever experience nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These symptoms can lead to dehydration if not properly managed. The nausea and vomiting are thought to be caused by the body’s inflammatory response to the virus and the high fever.
• Bleeding: In some cases, dengue fever can cause bleeding manifestations, which can range from mild nose or gum bleeding to more severe internal bleeding. This is a warning sign of a potentially life-threatening complication called dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Bleeding may also present as small, red spots or bruises under the skin, known as petechiae.
• Respiratory Distress: In severe cases of dengue, patients may develop dengue shock syndrome (DSS), which can lead to respiratory difficulties and shortness of breath. This is a medical emergency and requires immediate hospitalization and supportive care. DSS is caused by plasma leakage, fluid accumulation, and organ impairment.

It’s important to note that not all patients will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can vary. However, any combination of high fever, severe headache, muscle/joint pain, rash, and bleeding should be taken seriously and prompt medical evaluation should be sought, especially if symptoms persist or worsen after the initial few days.

Early diagnosis and supportive care, including proper hydration and fever management, can help prevent complications and improve outcomes in dengue fever cases.