Dengue - Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection causing high fever, severe headache, body aches, and in severe cases, potentially life-threatening bleeding and shock.
Overview
India is one of the most dengue-affected countries, reporting hundreds of thousands of cases annually. Dengue is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which bites during the day.
Most dengue infections are mild, but severe dengue (dengue hemorrhagic fever) can be fatal. There is no specific antiviral treatment — management is supportive. Early detection and proper medical care can reduce fatality below 1%.
Symptoms of Dengue
- FeverPrimary
Fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, usually above 100.4°F (38°C). It is a sign that the body is fighting an infection or illness.
- HeadachePrimary
A headache is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck. Most headaches are not serious and can be treated with lifestyle changes and medication.
- Muscle PainPrimary
Muscle pain (myalgia) is aching or soreness in muscles that can range from mild to severe. It can affect a small area or the entire body.
- Joint PainPrimary
Joint pain is discomfort, ache, or soreness in any of the body's joints. It can be caused by injury, arthritis, infections, or other conditions affecting the joints.
- Nausea
Nausea is an uneasy feeling in the stomach that often comes before vomiting. It can be caused by many conditions including infections, pregnancy, motion sickness, and digestive disorders.
- Skin Rash
A skin rash is a change in the color, appearance, or texture of the skin. Rashes can be caused by allergies, infections, autoimmune conditions, or other factors.
- Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of persistent tiredness or exhaustion that does not improve with rest. It can be physical, mental, or both, and may indicate an underlying health condition.
Causes of Dengue
Dengue virus (4 serotypes: DENV-1, 2, 3, 4)
Transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito bites
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water
Cannot spread directly from person to person
Treatment for Dengue
Rest and adequate fluid intake
Paracetamol for fever and pain (avoid aspirin and NSAIDs)
Oral rehydration solutions
Hospitalization for severe cases
IV fluids and electrolyte management
Platelet transfusion for severe thrombocytopenia
Close monitoring of vital signs and hematocrit
Prevention
Eliminate mosquito breeding sites (stagnant water)
Use mosquito repellents
Wear long-sleeved clothing
Use mosquito nets and screens
Fogging and insecticide spraying
Community clean-up drives during monsoon
Cover water storage containers
Risk Factors
Living in or traveling to endemic areas
Previous dengue infection (increased risk of severe dengue)
Monsoon and post-monsoon season
Urban and semi-urban areas
Lack of mosquito control measures
Children and elderly
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor immediately if you develop high fever with severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle/joint pain, and rash. Seek emergency care for warning signs: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding gums, blood in vomit or stool, fatigue, restlessness, or rapid decrease in platelet count.
Need help with Dengue?
Talk to our care team — we'll help you find the right specialist near you.
Which Doctor to Consult for Dengue
If you are experiencing symptoms of dengue, you may want to consult a specialist in one of these areas:
Related Conditions
These conditions share similar symptoms with dengue and may be relevant:
Malaria
Malaria is a life-threatening mosquito-borne disease caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted through the bite of infected Anopheles mosquitoes.
Chronic Kidney Disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a gradual loss of kidney function over months or years, eventually requiring dialysis or transplant if it progresses to end-stage.
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, spread through contaminated food and water, causing prolonged fever, weakness, and digestive problems.
Migraine
Migraine is a neurological condition that causes recurring episodes of moderate to severe headache, often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound.
Anemia
Anemia is a condition where the blood lacks enough healthy red blood cells or hemoglobin to carry adequate oxygen to the body's tissues, causing fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms.
Arthritis
Arthritis is a group of conditions involving inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling that can worsen with age.
FAQS
Dengue FAQs
Common questions about dengue.
Warning signs of severe dengue (usually appearing 24-48 hours after fever subsides) include severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, blood in vomit, fatigue, and restlessness. Seek emergency care immediately if these occur.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.