What should you know about fever, diarrhoea, and headache?

An infection can trigger fever and headache while irritating the digestive tract. Diarrhoea also removes water and salts, which may add dizziness, weakness, dry mouth, or a worsening headache. Common Cold and COVID-19 can cause fever and headache, while Dengue Fever may need consideration after a relevant mosquito exposure or travel history.

Symptoms alone cannot confirm a diagnosis. Note when each symptom began, how often stools occur, whether blood or mucus is present, and whether you can keep fluids down. Heat Exhaustion and Dehydration can also produce headache and weakness, especially after heat exposure or heavy sweating.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Continue easy-to-digest foods as tolerated, and avoid alcohol and foods that clearly worsen symptoms. Rest in a cool environment and wash hands carefully to reduce spread if an infection is possible.

Do not start antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeal medicine without advice, particularly if there is blood in the stool, significant abdominal pain, or a high fever. Keep a record of fluid intake, urination, temperature, and stool changes for a clinician.

Get urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, inability to drink, very little urine, blood or black stool, severe abdominal pain, a stiff neck, trouble breathing, or a sudden severe headache. Seek prompt assessment after travel to a dengue-risk area if fever is accompanied by intense body pain, bleeding, or unusual drowsiness.

Children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with reduced immunity should seek advice earlier because fluid loss may become serious quickly.

How much fluid should I take? Do I need testing? Which medicines are suitable with my health conditions, and what changes mean I should return urgently?