What do muscle aches feel like with dengue fever?

The discomfort may be felt in several muscle groups rather than one small area. People describe a heavy, bruised or deep aching sensation that can make ordinary movement feel harder. It may occur with high temperature, chills, headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea or unusual exhaustion. Dengue can also cause joint pain, so muscle soreness and joint discomfort may overlap. A symptom alone cannot identify the cause; other viral illnesses and exertion can produce body aches too.

Rest and take frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if you can keep fluids down. Wear light clothing and avoid strenuous activity. Keep track of your temperature, fluid intake and whether you are passing urine. Ask a clinician which pain reliever is suitable; avoid aspirin and ibuprofen until dengue has been excluded because they can increase bleeding risk. Do not take more than the label or clinician advises.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for suspected dengue, especially after travel or mosquito exposure in an affected area. Seek urgent help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, marked drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, cold clammy skin or inability to drink. Worsening symptoms as fever settles also need attention.

Ask whether testing or monitoring is needed, which medicines are safe, how to maintain hydration, and which warning signs should prompt an emergency visit.