Side effects of dengue after recovery

Dengue can leave the body recovering from fever, reduced appetite, fluid loss and inflammation. Energy may return gradually, and muscles or joints can remain uncomfortable for a while. A headache or occasional chills may also be reported during recovery. These symptoms should trend towards improvement. A new fever, increasing headache, unusual sleepiness, repeated vomiting, bleeding or easy bruising is different from ordinary convalescence and needs clinical advice. Do not assume every symptom after dengue is part of recovery; another infection or a complication can produce similar signs.

Rest, drink regularly and return to normal activity in stages. Choose nourishing meals and avoid strenuous exercise until strength is returning. Keep a simple record of temperature, fluid intake, bleeding or bruising, and pain changes. Use only medicines recommended for you; ask before taking an anti-inflammatory painkiller, particularly if bruising or bleeding is present. A GP Consultation can help review persistent symptoms, medicines and the timing of follow-up.

Seek urgent care for a returning or persistent fever, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, black stools, marked easy bruising, fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty or inability to drink. A sudden severe headache, extreme weakness or very little urine also warrants prompt assessment. Take your dengue history and any test results with you.

Ask whether your current fatigue and pain fit the expected recovery pattern, when you can resume exercise, which pain relief is appropriate, and whether blood tests or follow-up are needed. Tell the clinician if fever, chills, bruising or bleeding has returned.