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Published on: Jun 09, 2025
3 minute read
By: Secondmedic Expert

Dengue Fever Symptoms In Early Monsoon: What You Should Know

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As the early monsoon rains begin to fall across India, they bring much-needed relief from the scorching summer heat. But along with the cool showers comes a sharp rise in mosquito-borne illnesses—especially Dengue Fever. This illness affects thousands every year, and early detection is the key to fast recovery.

In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about Dengue Fever symptoms in early monsoon, how to stay safe, when to get tested, and how you can protect your family.

Why Dengue Fever Spikes in Early Monsoon?

The monsoon season creates the perfect environment for mosquitoes, especially the Aedes aegypti mosquito that transmits dengue. Stagnant water collects in drains, pots, coolers, and even bottle caps, allowing mosquitoes to breed rapidly.

Unlike malaria, which spreads during the night, dengue mosquitoes bite during the day, making them even more dangerous for schoolchildren and office-goers.

What is Dengue Fever?

Dengue is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which has four different strains. Once infected with one type, you gain lifelong immunity to that type, but subsequent infections with a different strain can be more severe.

There is no specific cure for dengue, so early diagnosis and symptom management are crucial.

Common Dengue Fever Symptoms in Early Monsoon

Symptoms usually appear 4 to 10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. They can range from mild to severe.

Here are the top signs to watch for:

1. Sudden High Fever (104°F or above)

One of the first symptoms. The fever appears quickly and is often accompanied by chills.

2. Severe Headache

Particularly behind the eyes, this is one of the most consistent signs of dengue.

3. Pain in Muscles and Joints (Breakbone Fever)

Extreme body pain gives dengue its nickname "breakbone fever."

4. Nausea and Vomiting

These symptoms may appear early and worsen as the infection progresses.

5. Skin Rash

A red, patchy rash appears on the skin, usually 2–5 days after fever starts.

6. Fatigue and Weakness

Even after the fever subsides, weakness can last for weeks.

7. Low Platelet Count

Detected through blood tests, this is the most serious indicator and must be monitored closely.

Warning Signs of Severe Dengue

If left untreated or if it worsens, dengue can develop into Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever or Dengue Shock Syndrome, both of which are life-threatening.

Seek immediate medical help if you notice:

Bleeding gums or nose
Blood in urine or stool
Vomiting blood
Severe abdominal pain
Difficulty breathing
Persistent vomiting

When Should You Get Tested?

If you have a fever for more than 2 days, especially during the monsoon, get tested immediately.

Recommended tests:

Dengue NS1 Antigen Test (for early detection)
Dengue IgG & IgM Test
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Platelet Count
Liver Function Test (LFT)

You can book all these tests from SecondMedic.com, powered by Thyrocare, from the comfort of your home.

How to Prevent Dengue During Monsoon

Here are some simple yet effective tips:

Don’t Let Water Accumulate

Empty buckets, coolers, flowerpots, and unused containers regularly.

Use Mosquito Repellents

Apply creams or sprays, especially during the day when dengue mosquitoes are active.

Wear Full-Sleeved Clothing

Covering your arms and legs can reduce mosquito bites significantly.

Use Mosquito Nets and Screens

Even though these mosquitoes bite during the day, nets can offer added protection.

Keep Your Surroundings Clean

Avoid litter and waterlogging near your house or society.

Who is Most at Risk?

Dengue can affect anyone, but certain groups are more vulnerable:

Children
Elderly people
Pregnant women
People with weakened immunity

If you or a loved one falls into these categories, it’s even more important to take extra precautions during the early monsoon season.

When to See a Doctor

If you have a high fever that does not respond to paracetamol
If symptoms worsen after 2–3 days of self-treatment
If there are signs of internal bleeding or low platelet count

Don't delay. Dengue is manageable if caught early.

Recovery Tips After Dengue

Stay well-hydrated (ORS, coconut water, soups)
Eat iron-rich foods to rebuild your blood count
Avoid physical exertion for at least 2–3 weeks
Follow up with blood tests to monitor platelet recovery

Conclusion

The monsoon season is refreshing but brings hidden dangers like dengue. Recognizing Dengue Fever Symptoms in Early Monsoon can help you take action quickly, protect your family, and reduce health risks.

If you notice any symptoms of dengue fever in early monsoon, book a test today on www.secondmedic.com and consult with expert doctors online.

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Read FAQs

A. Common early symptoms include sudden high fever, severe headache, joint pain, nausea, fatigue, and low platelet count.

A. Dengue spreads more in early monsoon due to stagnant water that becomes breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.

A. You should get tested if you have a fever lasting more than 2 days, especially during the monsoon season.

A. Tests include Dengue NS1 Antigen, IgG/IgM Antibodies, Complete Blood Count (CBC), and Platelet Count.

A. Avoid stagnant water, use mosquito repellent, wear full sleeves, and keep your surroundings clean.

Read Blog

Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

loss or disappointment
relationship issues
failure or stress
temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

situational
temporary
emotionally painful but manageable
responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

emotions
thinking patterns
behaviour
physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

persistent low mood
loss of interest or pleasure
fatigue
sleep disturbances
appetite changes
feelings of worthlessness
difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

lasts hours or days
improves with time

Depression:

lasts weeks or months
persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

allows continuation of work and relationships
may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

interferes with work, studies and relationships
reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

allows emotional range
moments of joy still occur

Depression:

creates emotional numbness
joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

chronic fatigue
body aches
headaches
digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

thoughts remain realistic
self-worth is preserved

Depression:

negative self-talk dominates
feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

chronic stress
trauma
family history
medical illnesses
hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

stressors are ongoing
support systems are weak
coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

low mood lasts more than two weeks
daily functioning is affected
sleep and appetite are disturbed
thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

requires psychotherapy
may need medication
benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

understanding family
supportive workplaces
accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

limited access to mental health services
low awareness
high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

prevents worsening
reduces suicide risk
improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

listening without judgement
encouraging professional help
avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

References

World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators
Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health
NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports
Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

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