Headache after dengue: what to know

Dengue can leave the body tired and sensitive to fluid loss while appetite and normal routines return. A headache may therefore accompany weakness, poor sleep or reduced drinking. It can also reflect a separate problem such as a respiratory infection, sinus symptoms or heat exposure. Do not assume every post-dengue headache is part of recovery. Fever returning, abdominal pain, bleeding, unusual drowsiness or breathing difficulty changes the level of concern.

Follow the discharge advice you were given, rest, and take frequent fluids if your clinician has not restricted them. Resume food gradually with nourishing, easy-to-tolerate meals. Avoid strenuous exertion until your energy has clearly returned. Use only a pain medicine your doctor or pharmacist considers appropriate after dengue; do not add medicines that may increase bleeding risk without checking first. Keep a record of temperature, fluid intake, headache pattern and any bleeding.

Seek emergency care for severe or rapidly worsening headache, repeated vomiting, fainting, confusion, marked sleepiness, seizures, trouble breathing, severe abdominal pain, blood in vomit or stool, or new bleeding. Contact a clinician promptly if fever returns, urine becomes very reduced or dark, dizziness persists, or the headache does not gradually improve. Recovery concerns are assessed using your current symptoms and examination, not the old diagnosis alone.

Ask when you can safely resume exercise, which pain relievers fit your recovery, and whether follow-up blood tests or examination are needed. Mention the date of dengue illness, any hospital care, current fever, bleeding, fluid intake and medicines.