Does dengue fever cause a sore throat?
Dec 23, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
The throat refers to the pharynx. Whether dengue fever causes a sore throat depends on whether the inflammatory response triggered by the virus affects the pharyngeal area. If the virus affects the pharynx, a sore throat usually occurs; however, if the pharynx is not affected, a sore throat will generally not occur. It is advisable to rest in bed, maintain a light diet, ensure adequate hydration, take measures to prevent mosquito bites, and avoid contact with sources of infection.
In general, the throat refers to the pharynx. Whether dengue fever causes a sore throat depends on whether the inflammatory response triggered by the virus affects the pharyngeal area. If the virus affects the throat, a sore throat typically occurs; however, if the throat is not affected, a sore throat may not develop. If discomfort occurs, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed explanation is as follows:
During the early stages of dengue fever, the virus triggers a systemic inflammatory response, which can cause a sore throat when the pharyngeal mucosa is affected. Additionally, a decline in the body's resistance during the course of the disease may lead to secondary bacterial infections in the throat, also resulting in a sore throat. This is because the dengue virus itself, along with the resulting inflammation and secondary infections, can irritate the throat tissues.
However, if the dengue fever is mild and the virus primarily concentrates in the bloodstream and other systems without triggering inflammatory responses or secondary infections in the throat, a sore throat may not occur.
It is important to rest in bed, maintain a light diet, ensure adequate hydration, take measures to prevent mosquito bites, and avoid contact with sources of infection.
