When to worry about muscle aches with dengue fever

Dengue fever can cause widespread muscle and joint discomfort as the immune system responds to infection. Aches may occur with fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, nausea or marked tiredness. The symptom alone does not show how serious the illness is, so track whether the pain is changing and whether you can drink and pass urine normally.

Rest in a cool environment and take frequent small drinks to reduce the chance of dehydration. Use only fever or pain medicine recommended by a clinician; avoid aspirin and ibuprofen unless a clinician specifically says they are suitable, because dengue can increase bleeding risk. Do not exercise while feverish or weak, and keep a record of fever, fluids and new symptoms.

Get urgent medical help for severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from the nose or gums, blood in vomit or stool, unusual sleepiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, cold or clammy skin, or very little urine. Seek prompt advice if the aches become intense, you cannot keep fluids down, or symptoms worsen as the fever settles. A clinician may need to assess hydration and blood-related warning signs.

Ask which pain reliever is appropriate, how much fluid to aim for, whether blood tests or follow-up are needed, and which changes should send you to emergency care.