• Published on: Oct 22, 2021
  • 3 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

What Are The Symptoms, Causes & Treatment Of Dengue Fever?

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What are the Symptoms, causes & treatment of Dengue fever?

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral infection that's becoming more common in many parts of the world.

A severe flu-like illness with muscle and joint pain, rash, headaches, nausea, and vomiting can be accompanied by a variety of other symptoms which include inflammation of the eye or gums causing pus build-up or tooth loss. Visiting a doctor is advisable if the headache lasts for more than 3 days; there are sudden meteors in vision;

The virus lives inside mosquitoes and is transmitted to humans through their saliva when they take a blood meal from an infected person. Vivax mosquitos tend to bite both day time and night time, while Aegypti mosquito prefers only night time

Dengue fever is caused by the dengue virus, which is spread to people through mosquito bites.

The four types of dengue virus cause similar illnesses however the risk for severe disease and death increases with successive infections due to how it affects your body's immune system. The most common symptoms include high fever, headache, sore throat, nausea or vomiting (only in some cases), fatigue or lack of strength (maybe unrelated), pain behind the eyes (called "photophobia"), and rashes on arms, legs buttocks.

  • Flu-like symptoms
  • Rash on the wrists, arms, legs & trunk of the body.
  • Joint pain or muscle pain
  • Nausea

Treatment: Pain medications and fluids to maintain adequate hydration. Low platelet count requires blood transfusion for carriers of thalassemia. Low platelet count is treated with plasma exchange therapy or immune globulin infusions. Dengue hemorrhagic fever is also treatable but the outcomes are bad if not caught early on. Death rate increases with the severity of dengue infection (DHF). DHF patients need IV fluids, clean water preparation techniques, antibiotics, antiemetics, and antipyretics; ideally in a hospital setting.

Dengue Fever is a viral infection transmitted primarily by mosquitoes. The virus infects the human ribonucleic acid (RNA) and affects platelets which become unstable and may lead to internal bleeding.

Symptoms of dengue fever include the following: high fevers which can reach up to 106 degrees Fahrenheit, headache, pain behind the eyes, joint pains, skin rash that looks like measles, or prickly heat. In some cases, it may be necessary for patients who experience unusual bleeding or persistent vomiting to get fluids intravenously (IV). For severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary with supportive measures such as maintaining fluid levels with IV fluids and careful monitoring of blood pressure.

Very feverish and break out in a rash. Treatment for Dengue Fever is rest, fluids, and aspirin or paracetamol to relieve pain. If someone has a loss of appetite or is unable to keep down fluids, seek medical help right away. Otherwise drink plenty of fluid such as water, cordial lime drinks such as Fanta. Avoid alcohol and caffeine because there can be low blood pressure associated with this illness which will cause more dehydration while worsening the symptoms. Symptoms usually start between 4-7 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito but may start anytime from 14-22 days following a bite from an infected mosquito depending on what type of virus was transmitted that infection period depends on your immune system.

Dengue fever is an infection of the human body by one of four closely related dengue viruses. It's typically carried by mosquitoes, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions throughout the world. The symptoms which are experienced are fevers, joint pains, severe headache, nausea, at times secondary bacterial infections that can be fatal to sufferers with other pre-existing health conditions. Diagnosis is through blood tests following possible exposure. Prevention involves mosquito control measures such as mosquito repellents and the elimination of mosquito breeding grounds. There is no universally accepted treatment for this particular illness yet though there have been trials done on animals so there might be after all good news for us down the road.

Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne tropical disease. Signs and symptoms may include mild fever, headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle aches, joint pains, nausea, or vomiting. The key to treatment is prevention against mosquitoes through avoidance of mosquito bites and use of insect repellents.

Mild cases usually get better without any specific treatment by 6 to 10 days. Use painkillers for the headache, drink plenty of fluids for persistent vomiting or nausea or other signs that develop after ten days or more that are not improving gradually on their own. Seek immediate medical attention if you have difficulty breathing(especially when accompanied by a cough), your skin is clammy with generalized discomfort("body aches"), unusual bleeding.

There are many symptoms of dengue fever, including headaches, nausea, and vomiting, pain behind the eyes both at rest and with movement. Joint pains are common too. There is no specific way to prevent dengue but prevention can be attempted through controlling mosquito populations in urban areas. There's no specific treatment available for this disease, though once it begins to recede patients can use acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

The fever is as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit and causes debilitation, dehydration, abdominal pain and headache. The Dengue virus causes the flu-like illness Dengue Fever. Symptoms include a sudden high fever accompanied by headaches, muscle aches, and extreme tiredness. It might seem like a minor cold but it can be potentially fatal and needs to be treated as an emergency if not diagnosed correctly in time.

This mosquito-borne disease also has far more serious consequences including internal bleeding called dengue hemorrhagic fever that can lead to death from shock or multiple organ failure after subsequent infection with other bacteria or parasites from contaminated surfaces such as water droplets on door handles of public buildings.

Dengue fever is a viral hemorrhagic fever and quickly becomes life-threatening, resulting in an extremely high mortality rate. Symptoms include high fever, skin rash (large red patches), joint pain, headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle and bone aches. Treatment includes keeping fluids up by taking electrolyte drinks such as Pedialyte or Gatorade which supplies the water and sodium your body needs to function properly. Avoid sugar drinks because they can make you sicker if you're not getting enough sugar. Get plenty of rest and lots of hydration for the best results!

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Fatty Liver in Young Adults

India’s Silent Epidemic: Fatty Liver in Young Adults

Introduction

In recent years, a quiet but dangerous health issue has been growing in India—fatty liver disease in young adults. Once thought to affect only older people or those who drink alcohol heavily, fatty liver is now being found in teenagers and people in their 20s and 30s. Shockingly, many of them don’t even realize they have it.

This blog aims to explain what fatty liver is, why it’s becoming common among young Indians, its causes, symptoms, prevention, and how to manage it naturally.

 

What Is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver, also known as Hepatic Steatosis, is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. There are two main types:

  1. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) – caused by heavy drinking.
     

  2. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) – occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol.
     

In India, NAFLD is increasing rapidly, especially among young adults. It often begins silently, without any symptoms, and slowly damages the liver over time.

 

Why Is It a Silent Epidemic?

Fatty liver is called a silent disease because most people don’t notice any signs in the early stages. It is often discovered during tests for other conditions or routine health check-ups.

The word “epidemic” may sound extreme, but the numbers support it. According to recent studies:

  • Over 30% of urban Indian adults under 40 may have fatty liver.
     

  • Young people are developing the disease as early as their late teens.
     

  • Many of them have normal weight, which proves that it's not just about being overweight.
     

 

Causes of Fatty Liver in Young Indians

  1. Unhealthy Diet
    High intake of fast food, sugary drinks, processed snacks, and fried items increases fat accumulation in the liver.
     

  2. Sedentary Lifestyle
    Long hours in front of screens and lack of physical activity are major contributors.
     

  3. Obesity and Belly Fat
    Excess fat around the abdomen, even in normal-weight individuals, can lead to NAFLD.
     

  4. Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance
    These conditions are on the rise among young Indians and are closely linked with fatty liver.
     

  5. Genetics
    A family history of liver disease or obesity can increase the risk.
     

  6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
    Young women with PCOS often develop insulin resistance and fatty liver as a result.
     

 

Signs and Symptoms

Most people with fatty liver have no obvious symptoms. But as the condition progresses, some may experience:

  • Constant tiredness

  • Mild pain in the upper right abdomen

  • Unexplained weight gain

  • Bloating or discomfort

  • Elevated liver enzymes in blood tests
     

If left untreated, fatty liver can lead to liver inflammation (NASH), fibrosis (scarring), and even liver cirrhosis or cancer in severe cases.

 

Diagnosis

Doctors may use the following methods to diagnose fatty liver:

  • Blood Tests – to check liver enzymes (ALT, AST).

  • Ultrasound or FibroScan – to detect fat accumulation.

  • MRI or CT scan – in advanced cases.

  • Liver Biopsy – rarely used unless needed to confirm severe damage.
     

 

Prevention: Simple Lifestyle Changes

Fatty liver is largely preventable and reversible in early stages. Here are some tips for young adults:

  1. Eat a Balanced Diet
    Include whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and lean proteins. Avoid junk food and reduce sugar intake.
     

  2. Exercise Regularly
    Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise daily—walking, jogging, dancing, yoga, or sports.
     

  3. Limit Sugar and Refined Carbs
    Cut down on sweets, soft drinks, white bread, and bakery items.
     

  4. Avoid Alcohol
    Even social or occasional drinking can worsen fatty liver, especially in those already at risk.
     

  5. Maintain Healthy Weight
    Keep your BMI in check, and don’t ignore belly fat even if you’re slim.
     

  6. Sleep Well
    Poor sleep affects hormone balance and increases fat storage in the body and liver.
     

  7. Manage Stress
    Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can lead to fat gain and liver problems.
     

 

Natural Remedies and Supportive Measures

While lifestyle change is the key, some natural ingredients may help support liver health:

  • Amla (Indian Gooseberry) – rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

  • Turmeric – contains curcumin which helps reduce liver inflammation.

  • Milk Thistle – a western herb known to protect liver cells.

  • Green Tea – has catechins that support fat burning and liver health.
     

Always consult your doctor before using herbal supplements, especially if you're on medications.

 

When to See a Doctor

Don’t wait for symptoms. If you:

  • Have a family history of diabetes or liver disease

  • Are overweight or have PCOS

  • Drink alcohol regularly

  • Feel tired all the time without reason
     

…it’s a good idea to get a basic liver check-up. Early diagnosis can help reverse the damage before it becomes serious.

 

The Bigger Picture

Fatty liver disease in India’s youth is not just a health issue—it’s a wake-up call. Our modern lifestyles, food habits, and stress levels are putting a silent strain on one of the most vital organs in our body.

Schools, colleges, and workplaces should spread awareness. Families should encourage home-cooked meals, outdoor activities, and regular health checks.

 

Conclusion

Fatty liver is no longer just an old person’s disease. It is India’s Silent Epidemic: Fatty Liver in Young Adults. The good news is that it can be prevented and even reversed if caught early. By making small but consistent changes to our daily habits, young Indians can protect their liver and ensure a healthier future.

Don’t ignore the signs. Take action today and beat India’s Silent Epidemic: Fatty Liver in Young Adults before it’s too late.

 

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