What should you know about bleeding during dengue?

Dengue can affect blood vessels and the body’s ability to control bleeding. Watch for bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusually heavy menstrual bleeding, or new bruises. Warning symptoms may appear as fever starts to settle, so feeling cooler does not by itself mean the illness is improving. Fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pain, and chills can occur with dengue, but bleeding changes the need for review.

A clinician may assess hydration, circulation, abdominal symptoms, mental alertness, and blood results. The appearance of easy bruising or any new bleeding should be reported rather than monitored alone at home.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly and follow their fluid and monitoring advice. Rest, take fluids in small regular amounts if you can drink, and use only fever medicine specifically recommended for you. Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and similar anti-inflammatory medicines unless a clinician tells you otherwise, because they can increase bleeding risk. Do not self-treat with antibiotics.

Seek emergency help for vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, heavy menstrual bleeding, persistent nose or gum bleeding, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, faintness, cold or clammy skin, breathing difficulty, confusion, or very little urine. Do not travel alone if you feel weak or dizzy.

Ask which bleeding signs require immediate return, how often your condition and blood results should be checked, and which medicines are safe for fever or pain. Ask how much fluid to take and what dehydration signs to watch for.