Treatment
Because Dengue hemorrhagic fever is caused by a virus for which there is no known cure or vaccine, the only treatment is to treat the symptoms.
- A transfusion of fresh blood or platelets can correct bleeding problems
- Intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes are also used to correct electrolyte imbalances
- Oxygen therapy may be needed to treat abnormally low blood oxygen
- Rehydration with intravenous (IV) fluids is often necessary to treat dehydration
- Supportive care in an intensive care unit/environment
Prognosis (Expectations)
With early and aggressive care, most patients recover from dengue hemorrhagic fever. However, half of untreated patients who go into shock do not survive.
Complications
- Encephalopathy
- Liver damage
- Residual brain damage
- Seizures
- Shock
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of dengue fever and have been in an area where dengue fever is known to occur, especially if you have had dengue fever before.
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Dengue hemorrhagic fever : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Dengue hemorrhagic fever : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Dengue hemorrhagic fever : Treatment
Review Date : 11/11/2008
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor in Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Assistant in Medicine, Division of Infectious Disease, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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