Sudden High Fever: A high fever (104°F/40°C) is a hallmark symptom of dengue fever, typically appearing 4-10 days after infection.
Severe Headaches: Intense headaches are common, often described as a throbbing or pulsating pain behind the eyes.
Muscle and Joint Pain: Dengue fever causes severe muscle, bone, and joint aches, giving rise to the nickname "breakbone fever."
Fatigue: Extreme tiredness and lethargy are common symptoms, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.
Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite can occur, leading to dehydration if not managed properly.
Skin Rash: A reddish skin rash may appear 2-5 days after the fever starts. It typically begins on the face and upper body and spreads to the limbs.
Mild Bleeding: Some people may experience mild bleeding from the nose, gums, or under the skin (easy bruising).
Eye Pain: Pain behind the eyes, often accompanying the headaches, can be a symptom of dengue fever.
Swollen Lymph Nodes: Lymph nodes in the neck or armpits may become swollen and tender.
In severe cases: Dengue hemorrhagic fever, a more serious complication, can lead to severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, rapid breathing, and bleeding from the gums or nose.