Dengue Fever: Signs And Symptoms To Watch Out For

Dengue fever can result in high fever, skin rash and joint pain

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease which is more common in tropical and sub-tropical areas. In India, dengue has become quite common in the past two decades. It is a viral disease, transmitted by the infective bite of a particular mosquito known as Aedes Aegypti. This condition causes flu like symptoms after 5 – 6 days of being bitten by an infective mosquito. There is no vaccine for dengue fever. It is important to follow all necessary precautions to prevent mosquito bites. In some cases when dengue fever is mild it may not show any symptoms. Initially symptoms of flu can be mistaken with common flue. Here are all the symptoms dengue fever which can help you get it treated on time.

Dengue fever: Signs and symptoms you need to know

The symptoms of dengue fever begin after four to seven days of being bitten by an infected mosquito. There are few who may have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can be mistaken for other illnesses like such as the flu. The symptoms of dengue may include-

Sudden high fever which can be up to 104-106 degrees F

High fever is usually accompanied with

- severe joint and muscle pain

- severe headache

- skin rash

- nausea

- vomiting  

- pain behind the eyes

Also read: Dengue Fever Prevention: Here's What You Should Do To Prevent Your Risk When At Home

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne infection which leads to high fever
Photo Credit: iStock

Most people recover within a week or so. In some cases, symptoms worsen and can become life-threatening. This is called severe dengue, dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. It causes a sudden drop in blood pressure resulting in death in some cases. Warning signs of dengue hemorrhagic fever are-

- liver enlargement

- poor functioning of circulatory system

- nose bleeding

- high fever

- damaged blood vessels (bleeding under the skin)

- rapid breathing 

- severe abdominal pain 

- fatigue

Also read: Dengue Fever: Be Cautious Of Those Mosquito Bites

When to see a doctor

If you experience fever with any two other symptoms of dengue, you must see your doctor. Initially a blood test is required for diagnosis. Later, a constant check on platelet count is also mandatory.

Also read: Dengue Fever: 5 Effective Home Remedies For Dengue Fever You Must Try

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.