Dengue fever (DF) is a disease caused by the dengue virus that is transmitted through the bite of the Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. This disease has three main phases that need to be watched out for, especially because the symptoms can develop quickly and risk causing serious complications. Understanding the three phases of dengue fever can help you recognize when to seek immediate medical attention.
Phase 1: Fever Phase
The initial phase of dengue fever is characterized by a sudden high fever, often reaching 39–41°C (102–104°F), which lasts for two to seven days. This fever is usually not accompanied by the typical cold or cough symptoms of other viral infections. In addition to fever, patients may also experience severe headache, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, fatigue, and nausea and vomiting.
At this stage, many people think that the fever they experience is just a common fever or flu. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to other symptoms that appear together. If you experience a high fever without a clear cause, especially in areas prone to dengue fever, see a doctor immediately.
Phase 2: Critical Phase – Danger Alert
After a few days of fever, body temperature can suddenly drop to below 38°C. This drop often makes patients feel better, so many think they are cured. In fact, this phase is the most dangerous phase in the dengue fever cycle.
In the critical phase, blood vessels leak, causing fluid to build up in body cavities such as the lungs and abdomen. Symptoms to watch out for include:
1. Nosebleeds or bleeding gums
Nosebleeds and bleeding gums occur due to decreased platelets that cause blood clotting disorders. If bleeding becomes more frequent or severe, patients should seek medical attention immediately to prevent the risk of dangerous dengue shock.
2. The appearance of red spots on the skin
Red spots appear due to the rupture of small blood vessels due to low platelets. These spots do not disappear when pressed. If the number increases or is accompanied by other bleeding, the patient needs to be examined immediately by a medical professional to get the right treatment.
3. Severe abdominal pain
Abdominal pain can occur due to leakage of blood plasma into the abdominal cavity or an enlarged liver. If the pain worsens, lasts a long time, or is accompanied by vomiting, the patient should immediately seek hospital treatment to avoid complications.
4. Constant vomiting
Repeated vomiting can cause dehydration and fluid imbalance in the body. If it occurs more than three times a day and makes it difficult for the patient to eat or drink, seek medical help immediately to get replacement fluids.
5. Shortness of breath or body feels very weak
Shortness of breath occurs due to fluid accumulation in the chest cavity or a drastic drop in blood pressure. If accompanied by extreme weakness, seek medical attention immediately to prevent more serious conditions.
If not treated properly, this phase can develop into dengue shock, which can potentially lead to organ failure and even death. Therefore, if you or someone close to you experiences these signs, seek medical attention immediately.
Phase 3: Recovery Phase
If the patient successfully passes the critical phase, they will enter the recovery phase which lasts about 48 to 72 hours. In this phase, the blood vessel leakage begins to improve, lost body fluids return to circulation, and the patient's condition slowly improves.
Patients who enter this phase will experience increased appetite, a more energetic body, and more frequent urination. However, it is important to continue to pay attention to hydration and nutritional intake so that the recovery process is optimal.
When to See a Doctor?
You need to seek medical help immediately if you experience the following symptoms:
- High fever without an obvious cause for more than two days
- Red spots appear on the skin or bleeding from the nose and gums
- Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
- Signs of dehydration such as dry lips, little urine, or extreme weakness
Recognizing the three phases of dengue fever and the warning signs can help you take the right action and avoid serious complications. If you experience suspicious symptoms, consult a medical professional immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Article written by dr. Patriotika Ismail, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist, EMC Cikarang Hospital).