Did you know up to 400 million people get infected with dengue every year and many millions are at risk? Dengue fever is a disease caused by the bite of mosquitoes infected with one of the dengue viruses. The symptoms are similar to the flu. However, they may become worse and develop into dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is a life-threatening disease. While the first time getting infected with dengue fever may not be severe, the second time increases the risk of symptoms.
What is Dengue Fever?
You may get dengue fever if a mosquito carrying one of the four kinds of dengue virus (DENV) bites you. The DENV is generally found in regions that are tropical and subtropical, such as Central and South America, Africa, and parts of Southeast Asia and the western Pacific Islands. However, it has now attacked regions such as Europe and the southern parts of the United States. Dengue fever affects millions of cases across the world and may result in serious bleeding, a drop in blood pressure, and death if the symptoms get severe.
What are the Symptoms of Dengue Fever?
Several affected persons have no indications or symptoms of dengue infection.
When symptoms of dengue fever arise, they may be confused with other illnesses like the flu. It may take usually 4 to 10 days after the mosquito bite for the symptoms to show. Usually, dengue fever may result in a high fever of 104 F (40 C) coupled with symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Muscle, bone, or joint pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain behind the eyes
- Swollen glands
- Rash
While most people with dengue recover within a week or more, other people may experience their symptoms worsening. The latter may have severe dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever, or dengue shock syndrome, which is usually life-threatening.
Severe dengue is when your blood vessels turn damaged and start to leak. Additionally, there is a decrease in the number of clot-forming cells (platelets) in your bloodstream. This may further lead to shock, internal bleeding, organ failure, and even death.
The warning signs of severe dengue fever, which is a life-threatening emergency, may emerge immediately. The warning signs usually start to show one or two days after your fever subsides and may consist of:
- Severe stomach pain
- Persistent vomiting
- Bleeding from your gums or nose
- Blood in your urine, stools, or vomit
- Bleeding under the skin, which might appear like bruising
- Difficult or rapid breathing
- Fatigue
- Irritability or restlessness
How is Dengue Fever Diagnosed?
If you have the symptoms of dengue fever, your healthcare provider may recommend you get a blood test done. The blood test helps in determining the specific kind of dengue virus you have out of the four. It may also help them understand if any other viruses are causing similar symptoms in your bloodstream.
How Do I Treat Dengue Fever?
There is no medication available that specifically addresses dengue fever. Your healthcare provider will offer guidance on how to handle your symptoms and advise you on whether you need to visit the ER.
How Can I Handle the Symptoms of Dengue Fever?
Handling your symptoms is the sole approach to managing dengue fever. Adhere to the advice of your healthcare provider, which may consist of:
- Staying hydrated by consuming plenty of water and fluids.
- Obtaining as much rest as you can.
- Managing pain with acetaminophen (such as Tylenol®) exclusively.
- Avoid taking ibuprofen (like Advil®) or aspirin. This may elevate your risk of severe internal bleeding.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of dengue fever, make sure to speak to your healthcare provider and keep an eye out for the warning signs of severe dengue.
