Recognize the Early Symptoms of Dengue Fever and How to Treat It

Dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) is an infectious disease caused by the Dengue virus that is transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito. DHF is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions such as Indonesia.
The disease causes high fever and flu-like symptoms. If dengue fever is not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications and even death.
Dengue fever is a dangerous disease that is life threatening if not treated immediately. Therefore, Hermina friends must recognize the symptoms of dengue fever so that they can immediately get the right treatment if they contract this disease.

Symptoms of Dengue Fever

Dengue fever symptoms are usually characterized by a high fever that can reach 39 degrees. This condition lasts for 2-7 days, after which it decreases drastically. Apart from high fever, dengue fever also has several signs and symptoms:
- Headache
- Pain in the area behind the eyes, muscles, bones and joints
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rash or reddish patches on the skin
- Inflammation of the throat

After that, the initial symptoms of DHF are usually followed by additional symptoms that indicate the virus has begun to spread throughout the body and cause inflammation, such as:
- Abdominal pain, pain when pressed
- Continuous vomiting
- Bleeding of the gums and nose
- Vomiting of blood
- Fatigue and restlessness

Dengue Treatment
Hospitalization is generally recommended for dengue patients. Although there is no cure for dengue fever, the symptoms of dengue patients must be cured so that their condition can recover, especially if they have serious dengue fever.
Some efforts that can be done to treat dengue fever are:
- Ensure adequate fluid intake, 2-3 liters per day to avoid dehydration.
- Take fever-reducing medicine to reduce fever.
- Get enough rest
- Compress around the body to reduce fever

If the patient is very weak and cannot drink large amounts of water, doctors usually give more fluids through an IV. In addition, taking painkillers is not recommended as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
If you or your loved ones need professional help, contact a doctor at the nearest Hermina Hospital for proper medical diagnosis and treatment.
In addition, it is important to take preventive measures with DHF Vaccination. You can vaccinate your family from home through the vaccine package service available at Hermina Pekalongan Hospital.

Reference:

Dr. M. Rizal, Sp.A, interviewed by the author, 2024, Pekalongan, Central Java

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed on 2024. Dengue Fever.

Ministry of Health. Beware of Dengue Fever (DHF) https://p2p.kemkes.go.id/kasus-dbd-sedang-tinggi-waspada-komplikasi-nya/