MOST COMMON MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESS IN INDIA
Dengue
A viral infection spread by infected mosquitoes that causes sudden high fever, severe body and joint pain, low platelet counts and, in some cases, serious complications needing close monitoring or hospital care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Dengue
Dengue (also called dengue fever or dengue infection) is a viral illness caused by the dengue virus, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. It typically begins with sudden high fever, severe headache, pain behind the eyes, intense body and joint pain (often called "break-bone fever"), nausea and a skin rash. Most patients recover with supportive care, but dengue can sometimes progress to severe forms involving bleeding, low platelet counts or fluid leakage — known as severe dengue — which require urgent hospital management. Early diagnosis, regular blood monitoring and timely fluid management make a significant difference to recovery. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive dengue evaluation, monitoring and inpatient care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Bite from a dengue-infected Aedes mosquito
- Living in or travelling to areas with active dengue outbreaks
- Stagnant water around the home that supports mosquito breeding
- Monsoon and post-monsoon season (peak transmission period)
- Previous dengue infection — second infections can be more severe
- Children, elderly patients and those with other illnesses are at higher risk
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Dengue-specific blood tests in the early days; daily complete blood count for monitoring
Dengue without warning signs · Dengue with warning signs · Severe dengue
Supportive care, hydration and platelet monitoring; no specific antiviral medication
Anti-inflammatory pain medication during fever, as it increases bleeding risk
Most patients recover in 7–10 days; mild fatigue may persist for a few weeks
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Daily Monitoring & Fluid Management
Dengue care is built on careful daily monitoring of platelet count, blood concentration and fluid balance, combined with timely fluid replacement and safe fever control. Most patients can be managed as outpatients, but those with warning signs are admitted for closer observation and intravenous fluid management.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews the duration of fever, symptom pattern and risk factors, performs a clinical examination, and orders dengue-specific tests along with a baseline complete blood count.
- 2
Treatment Planning
Based on severity, hydration status and warning signs, a personalised care plan is created — either home-based monitoring with daily blood tests or inpatient admission for closer care.
- 3
Medical Management
Supportive care with safe fever control, oral or intravenous fluids, and regular blood monitoring. Hospital admission is arranged immediately if warning signs appear.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Once the fever settles and platelet counts begin to recover, patients are reviewed to confirm full recovery, address lingering fatigue and discuss mosquito-prevention measures for the household.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Supportive Care and IV Fluids
The foundation of dengue treatment — adequate hydration, rest and electrolyte balance to support the body through the viral illness.
Safe Fever Control
Fever and pain are managed with medication considered safe in dengue. Anti-inflammatory medication is avoided due to bleeding risk.
Platelet and Haematocrit Monitoring
Daily blood tests track platelet count and blood concentration, allowing early detection of severe dengue and timely intervention.
Hospitalisation for Warning Signs
Inpatient care for patients with persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, bleeding, dropping platelets or signs of fluid leakage.
Vector Control Counselling
Patient and family education on eliminating stagnant water around the home, use of repellents and screens, and protecting other household members.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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