What is Dengue?

Dengue, also known as break-bone fever, is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates.

Mild dengue fever causes a high fever and flu-like symptoms. The severe form of Dengue, also called Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever, can cause serious bleeding, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and death.

 

Most Common Symptoms

Many people experience mild signs like a mild fever; however, the most common symptoms are:

• Headache
• Muscle, bone, and joint pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Pain behind the eye
• Swollen glands

Most people recover within a week, but in some cases, symptoms worsen and can become life-threatening. In these cases, severe symptoms are a consequence of blood vessels becoming damaged and leaky. This can lead to shock, organ failure, and death.

 

How to Prevent Dengue?

To prevent dengue, you can take the following precautions:

• Use insect repellent.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
• Avoid stagnant warm water, such as residual water in containers and some natural ponds.
• If you are in an area where mosquitoes are very common, try to stay in a well-screened house, especially during the afternoon, from 5-7 pm.

 

When to See a Doctor?

Severe dengue fever can be a life-threatening medical emergency. Seek immediate attention if you have developed any of the warning signs and have been recently in an endemic area.

To book an appointment at our clinic, call +1 (345) 333-2222. Alternatively, you may send an email to appointments@totalhealth.ky. We are open from 8AM – 8PM, Monday to Saturday.