Dengue Fever: Symptoms, Causes & Which Doctor to See

Platelets commonly fall in dengue, and doctors monitor the trend closely. A low count alone is not the only measure of danger; warning signs such as abdominal pain, vomiting, bleeding, breathlessness, restlessness or low urine output, and a rising haematocrit, matter more. Platelet transfusion is not routinely needed and is reserved for specific situations. Follow your doctor’s advice on testing and when hospital care is needed.

Some small studies suggest papaya leaf extract may affect platelet counts, but the evidence is limited and it has not been shown to prevent severe dengue. It should never replace medical monitoring, fluids or hospital care when warning signs appear. If you choose to take it, tell your doctor, and avoid preparations that could upset your stomach or cause vomiting.

Paracetamol is the recommended medicine for fever and body pain in dengue, taken at the dose on the label or as prescribed, without exceeding the daily maximum. Avoid ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin, mefenamic acid and other anti-inflammatory painkillers, because they increase bleeding risk. Do not take steroids or antibiotics unless a doctor prescribes them for a specific reason.

The fever usually lasts two to seven days. The critical phase, when warning signs can appear, comes around the time the fever settles and lasts about one to two days. Most people then recover, but tiredness, poor appetite and low mood can continue for several weeks. Some people notice hair shedding two to three months later, which usually recovers.

Yes. There are four types of dengue virus. Infection gives lasting protection only against the type that caused it, so you can be infected again by a different type. A second infection carries a higher risk of severe dengue. This is why people who have had dengue before should be especially careful to prevent mosquito bites and seek early care for fever.

Go to the nearest emergency department or call 112 or 108 if you develop severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, bleeding from gums or nose, black stools, breathlessness, cold clammy skin, restlessness, drowsiness, or pass very little urine. These warning signs often appear as the fever settles. Infants, pregnant women, older adults and people with long-term illnesses may need admission earlier.

Drink plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solution, coconut water, buttermilk, soups, rice kanji and fresh juices. Eat light, easily digested food such as idli, khichdi, curd rice and fruit. Avoid dark red or brown foods and drinks if you are vomiting, as they can be confused with blood. Keep track of how often you pass urine as a guide to hydration.

Once a week, empty, scrub and dry all containers that hold water, including flower pot saucers, money plant bottles, cooler and fridge trays, and pet bowls. Cover water drums and tanks tightly, clear blocked gutters and terrace drains, and dispose of tyres, coconut shells and plastic waste. Apartment associations can arrange regular checks of sumps, overhead tanks and basements.