Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a severe, life-threatening form of dengue fever that poses a major public health concern in tropical and subtropical regions. Transmitted by infected mosquitoes, DHF can escalate from a high fever to internal bleeding, shock, and even death if left untreated. In this blog, we explore everything you need to know about DHF—its causes, symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention—empowering you with the knowledge to act early and stay safe.

What Is Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF)?

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever (DHF) is a complication of dengue fever, caused by the Dengue virus (DENV), primarily DENV-2 and DENV-4. It is transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which is active during the day, especially early morning and late afternoon.

Unlike classic dengue, DHF is marked by:

• Increased vascular permeability

• Low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

• Hemorrhagic manifestations

• Plasma leakage

• Potential progression to Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS)

How Does DHF Develop?

DHF usually occurs when a person who has previously had dengue fever gets infected again by a different serotype of the virus. This secondary infection triggers a more intense immune response, increasing the risk of vascular leakage and bleeding.

There are four serotypes of the dengue virus:

• DENV-1

• DENV-2

• DENV-3

• DENV-4

Once infected with one serotype, the body develops immunity against it—but not the other three. Hence, secondary infections are more dangerous.

Causes and Transmission of DHF

The primary cause of DHF is infection with one of the dengue virus serotypes. Here’s how transmission occurs:

1. Mosquito Bite: Aedes aegypti mosquito bites a dengue-infected person.

2. Virus Development: The virus incubates inside the mosquito for 8–12 days.

3. Secondary Bite: The infected mosquito bites another person, transmitting the virus.

4. Viral Multiplication: The virus multiplies in the human host, leading to symptoms.

Symptoms of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

DHF symptoms usually appear 4–10 days after being bitten by an infected mosquito. The disease progresses through three phases:

1. Febrile Phase (Day 1–3)

• Sudden high fever (≥ 102°F or 39°C)

• Severe headache

• Muscle and joint pain

• Pain behind the eyes

• Fatigue and malaise

• Nausea and vomiting

• Skin rash

2. Critical Phase (Day 3–7)

This phase is the most dangerous and can lead to:

• Drop in body temperature (below normal)

• Severe abdominal pain

• Persistent vomiting

• Rapid breathing

• Bleeding gums or nose

• Blood in vomit or stool (black tarry stool)

• Restlessness or irritability

• Signs of circulatory failure or shock

3. Recovery Phase (Day 7–10)

• Stabilization of blood pressure

• Gradual return of appetite

• Reabsorption of leaked fluids

• Skin rash with peeling (convalescent rash)

Complications of DHF

If not treated promptly, DHF can progress to:

• Dengue Shock Syndrome (DSS): Sudden drop in blood pressure, organ failure.

• Internal bleeding: From the gastrointestinal tract or brain.

• Liver damage: Elevated liver enzymes and jaundice.

• Neurological issues: Seizures or encephalitis.

• Death: Particularly in children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

Risk Factors for DHF

Several factors increase the risk of developing DHF:

• Previous dengue infection

• Young children and elderly adults

• Weakened immune system

• Living in or traveling to endemic areas

• Lack of mosquito control measures

• Unhygienic water storage

Diagnosis of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Accurate and early diagnosis of DHF is essential to prevent complications. At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, we offer advanced and timely diagnostics including:

1. Clinical Evaluation

• Fever history

• Signs of bleeding or shock

• Abdominal examination

2. Blood Tests

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Low platelet count, rising hematocrit

• Dengue NS1 Antigen Test: Detects early infection (first 5 days)

• IgM and IgG Antibody Test: Detects dengue antibodies (after 5 days)

• Liver Function Tests (LFT): Elevated liver enzymes

• Coagulation Profile: To assess bleeding risk

3. Imaging Tests

• Ultrasound: Detects fluid accumulation in chest or abdomen

• X-ray: Helps rule out other causes of fever

Treatment of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

There is no specific antiviral drug for DHF. Management is supportive and includes:

Hospitalization Is Critical

Patients with DHF need to be admitted immediately.

1. Fluid Replacement

• IV fluids to prevent dehydration and manage plasma leakage

• Oral rehydration salts (ORS) if mild symptoms

2. Blood Transfusion

• For patients with internal bleeding or very low platelet count

3. Monitoring

• Vital signs

• Hematocrit and platelet levels

• Urine output and organ function

4. Symptomatic Treatment

• Paracetamol for fever

• Avoid NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen) as they increase bleeding risk

Prevention of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

Prevention is key because there is no vaccine widely available for all dengue serotypes and no cure once infected. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family:

1. Mosquito Control

• Use mosquito repellents (DEET, picaridin)

• Install mosquito nets and screens

• Use electric mosquito bats or vaporizers

• Avoid stagnant water in flower pots, old tires, coolers, etc.

2. Personal Protection

• Wear long sleeves and pants

• Use mosquito nets while sleeping

• Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk

3. Community Action

• Fogging to reduce mosquito population

• Regular community clean-up drives

• Proper waste disposal and water storage

When to Seek Medical Attention

You should consult a doctor or visit a diagnostic centre like Sparsh immediately if you notice:

• High fever for more than 2 days

• Signs of bleeding (gums, nose, urine, stool)

• Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting

• Dizziness or fainting

• Decreased urine output

Why Early Diagnosis at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre Matters

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, we emphasize early detection, expert consultation, and affordable diagnostics. Here’s why you should choose us:

• NABL-accredited lab facilities

• Real-time dengue NS1 and IgM/IgG testing

• Quick turnaround reports

• Affordable health check-up packages

• Friendly and experienced healthcare professionals

FAQs About Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever

1. Is DHF contagious?

No. DHF is not spread from person to person. It spreads only through the bite of an infected mosquito.

2. Can DHF be cured at home?

No. DHF is a medical emergency and should be managed in a hospital under medical supervision.

3. What is the difference between dengue and DHF?

DHF is a more severe and potentially fatal complication of dengue that involves internal bleeding and shock.

4. How long does DHF last?

With proper treatment, the fever subsides in about 7–10 days, but full recovery can take weeks.

Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever is a serious illness that requires prompt recognition and hospital-based care. With the monsoon season creating favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, it is critical to stay vigilant, maintain hygienic surroundings, and seek early diagnosis.

Your health is our priority—stay informed, stay protected.

Need Help with a Fever?

Visit Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for accurate dengue testing and professional care. Home sample collection facility available throughout Kolkata.

📍 Address: 231/1 NSC Bose Road, Kolkata 700 047 https://g.co/kgs/LkJQpzd
📞 Call: 9830117733 / 8335049501
🌐 Website: https://www.sparshdiagnostica.com

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Disclaimer:
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.