Dengue
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
Dengue is a disease caused by 4 different viruses. Infection by one virus does not provide immunity against the other 3. This means you can get dengue up to 4 times. A dengue virus may cause a mild to severe infection.
WHILE YOU ARE HERE:
Informed consent
is a legal document that explains the tests, treatments, or procedures that you may need. Informed consent means you understand what will be done and can make decisions about what you want. You give your permission when you sign the consent form. You can have someone sign this form for you if you are not able to sign it. You have the right to understand your medical care in words you know. Before you sign the consent form, understand the risks and benefits of what will be done. Make sure all your questions are answered.
Monitoring:
- Intake and output may be measured. Healthcare providers will keep track of the amount of liquid you are getting. They also may need to know how much you are urinating. Ask healthcare providers if they need to measure or collect your urine.
- A heart monitor is an EKG that stays on continuously to record your heart's electrical activity.
- A neurovascular exam checks the blood flow to your hands and feet. Healthcare providers will check the temperature and color of your fingers and toes.
- A neurological exam , or neuro checks show healthcare providers your brain function. They will check how your pupils react to light. They may check your memory and how easily you wake up. Your hand grasp and balance may also be tested.
Medicines
may be given to decrease pain and fever.
Tests:
- Blood tests will check for infection, kidney function, and blood sugar levels. Blood tests will also measure your blood cell levels.
- Ultrasound pictures look for fluid in your abdomen.
- Chest x-ray pictures will look for fluid in your chest.
Treatment:
- You may need extra oxygen if your blood oxygen level is lower than it should be. You may get oxygen through a mask placed over your nose and mouth or through small tubes placed in your nostrils. Ask your healthcare provider before you take off the mask or oxygen tubing.
- A blood transfusion may be given if you have heavy bleeding.
- IV fluids treat or prevent dehydration. They also help increase your blood pressure.
RISKS:
Dengue may cause shock, a condition that causes your blood pressure to drop very low. This condition may become life-threatening.
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.© Copyright Merative 2025 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.