Dengue fever 

Diagnosis  

Diagnosing dengue fever presents challenges due to its signs and symptoms, which can closely resemble those of other diseases like chikungunya, Zika virus, malaria, and typhoid fever. The following may help the healthcare provider in diagnosing dengue fever:   

• Physical examination: The healthcare provider will probably inquire about the medical and travel history. The patient should fully describe their international travels to their healthcare provider, including the countries they visited, the dates they were there, and any possible mosquito encounters.  
• Blood test: A healthcare provider may also take a blood sample to be examined in a lab for signs of dengue virus infection. Additionally, this could reveal which of the four variants the patient has. A blood test might be used by a healthcare provider to check for additional infections that cause comparable symptoms.  

Treatment  

There is no specific treatment available for dengue fever. During the recovery phase, it is important to ensure adequate fluid intake. If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of dehydration, it is crucial to promptly contact your doctor: 

• Reduced urine output 
• Minimal or no tear production 
• Dryness of the mouth or lips 
• Feelings of lethargy or confusion 
• Cold or clammy extremities 

To alleviate muscle pain and reduce fever, you can use the over–the–counter (OTC) medication acetaminophen. However, if you have dengue fever, it is essential to avoid other OTC pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, as they can increase the risk of bleeding complications associated with dengue fever. 

In cases of severe dengue fever, the following interventions may be necessary: 

• Hospitalization for supportive care 
• Administration of intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes 
• Continuous monitoring of blood pressure 
• Transfusion of blood to address significant blood loss