Why does body pain persist even after recovering from dengue fever?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 33-year-old male. I recently recovered from dengue, and my platelets are also on track. The thing that is worrying me is that I am still experiencing body aches and pains. So, I want a second opinion on how to address these symptoms. Should I undergo any tests or take any medications?

Answer 1

Hi,

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Clinical sequelae after recovery from an acute dengue virus infection are common in the two years following infection. Persistent symptoms are associated with alterations in some immunological parameters and FcγRIIa (low-affinity Fc-gamma receptor II) gene polymorphism. This could suggest an autoimmune-based disturbance. Post-dengue fatigue syndrome (PDFS) is not an uncommon occurrence. It comprises a variety of symptom complexes ranging from fatigue, muscle weakness, and variable neurological abnormalities, which have been reported in various parts of the world.

If you continue to experience out-of-proportion body aches and pains, you must undergo an investigation for blood values of dengue-specific antibodies, systemic pathological tests, general tests for liver and kidney function, and hematological tests. In case everything is within normal limits, symptomatic relief with muscle relaxants and mild pain medications should suffice.

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Thank you.