What Happens in Dengue?

The early illness often feels like a strong viral infection, with fever, chills, headache, and marked body aches. A person may also notice reduced appetite, tiredness, nausea, or skin changes. When the temperature starts to fall, some people improve while others develop warning signs such as worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, unusual sleepiness, or easy bruising. A falling fever therefore does not always mean the illness has finished.

A dengue diagnosis is considered alongside the examination and timing of symptoms. A fever by itself has many possible causes, so testing and clinical review may be needed.

Rest and take frequent fluids; small, regular sips can be easier if nausea is present. Keep a record of temperature, fluid intake, urine, bleeding, vomiting, and changes in alertness. Use only medicines recommended by a clinician, because some pain relievers can increase bleeding risk. Avoid mosquito bites while unwell so mosquitoes do not spread the virus to others.

Seek urgent medical care for severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, black stools, breathing difficulty, faintness, confusion, cold or clammy skin, or very little urine. Arrange prompt assessment if fever is continuing, symptoms are worsening, or you cannot keep fluids down. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can help assess dehydration and decide whether further testing or monitoring is needed.

Ask which symptoms should trigger emergency care, how to maintain hydration, which medicines are suitable, and whether you need repeat review or testing. Ask how to protect household members from mosquito bites during your illness.