What should you know about dengue main symptoms?

Dengue Fever often starts suddenly. A person may feel hot and exhausted, develop a headache or pain behind the eyes, and have pronounced muscle or joint aches. Chills, nausea, reduced appetite and a rash may occur as the illness progresses.

Symptoms vary, and these features overlap with other infections. A person with fever and aches does not automatically have dengue. A clinician may consider mosquito exposure, recent travel, examination findings and testing when deciding what is happening.

Rest, drink regularly and record the timing of fever, vomiting, rash, bruising and urine. Choose medicines only after checking that they are suitable; some anti-inflammatory medicines may increase bleeding risk. Avoid strenuous exercise while feverish or weak.

Arrange a GP Consultation if dengue is possible, symptoms are worsening or you cannot maintain fluids. Share your travel history, mosquito exposure and all medicines with the clinician.

Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding, fainting, confusion, unusual sleepiness, breathing difficulty, cold clammy skin or very little urine. These signs need action even if the fever has started to settle.

Ask whether testing is appropriate, which pain or fever medicine you can take, how to maintain fluids and which changes mean you should attend urgent care.