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Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne viral illness. It is caused by an infected female Aedes mosquito. In some cases, the fever becomes severe, resulting in symptoms such as bleeding, low platelet count, etc. This is called dengue haemorrhagic fever (DHF). If the fever further causes a sudden decrease in blood pressure or blood circulation problems, then it is called dengue shock syndrome (DSS).

Symptoms of dengue fever include:
severe joint and muscle pain
headache
high fever that occurs suddenly
fatigue
nausea and vomiting
severe pain behind the eyes
skin rash
fever
bleeding

Patients with mild dengue fever typically recover within one or two weeks by themselves. However, if the illness becomes critical or in case there is an aggravation of symptoms after the fever goes away, seek emergency medical attention or take to the nearest hospital.

There is no medication available for the treatment of dengue fever. Since dengue is a result of viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Besides, vaccines are not available for this condition yet. However, medications such as paracetamol, which relieve pain and fever, are prescribed to the patients.

Dengue fever can be treated at home unless it is not severe. It is recommended to have lots of rest, drink plenty of fluids so that you do not experience dehydration, and consume a healthy diet. Do contact your doctor as soon as possible or seek medical attention in case the fever evolves into dengue haemorrhagic fever.