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dengue fever complications
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Infectious Illnesses
Question #13809
9 days ago
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dengue fever complications - #13809

Swara

I am really worried because last week I was feeling super fatigued, with a fever that was like a rollercoaster — one minute I was boiling up, and the next I was freezing. Went to the doc, and they did some tests, come to find out I have dengue fever! The fever went down after a few days, but I got this terrible pain behind my eyes and some joint pain too. They said I need to watch for dengue fever complications but I don't fully get what that means. Like, are these pains normal, or should I be freaking out about dengue fever complications showing up? A friend of mine had dengue a while back, and she was talking about all these issues she faced for months after, and now I can't stop comparing. I’m scared of things like bleeding or organ issues, I mean what should I expect? Do certain signs mean I should rush to the ER? I just want to know how common these dengue fever complications are, and if there are any things I should be looking out for as I recover. Is it going to just get worse or am I safe if I manage the symptoms? Any insights would be sooo appreciated!

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Doctors’ responses

Dengue fever can indeed be a bumpy ride, and it’s really important to keep an eye out for complications as you recover. First off, it’s common to experience eye pain and joint pain with dengue—it’s often referred to as “breakbone fever” because of this. What’s crucial to monitor is whether these symptoms escalate into something more serious. Dengue complications, like Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) or Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS), do occur but aren’t as common; however, being vigilant is key. Here are some warning signs to watch for: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, bleeding gums, fatigue, and restlessness or irritability. If you experience any of these, you should seek medical attention promptly. Bleeding might manifest as red spots or patches on the skin, bleeding from the nose or gums, vomiting blood, or blood in the stools.

Most patients recover without complications if their condition is properly monitored and treated early on. It’s generally advised to stay hydrated, rest well, and avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can increase bleeding risk—instead, use acetaminophen for pain and fever if needed. Once the critical phase (typically after the fever subsides) is passed, most people gradually improve, but some symptoms, like fatigue, can linger for weeks.

To manage your recovery safely, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider would be advisable, allowing them to monitor for any late-onset issues. It’s not usually about symptoms getting worse if managed well—it’s more about staying cautious and not ignoring warning signs. Pay attention to your body and seek help early if anything feels off—early intervention can prevent complications from becoming severe.

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