On February 15, after waking up from a nap, I felt an intense headache, dizziness, and nausea. After vomiting a few times, I felt some relief, but I couldn’t sleep that night. I was alternating between chills and excessive sweating, with a fever that left me exhausted.
The next day, February 16, I was too weak to go to church. After an afternoon nap, the symptoms hit even harder—I was freezing and struggling to walk due to dizziness and nausea. Wrapped up in blankets, I could feel the heat radiating from my body. That was when we decided to rush to the emergency room.
Diagnosed with Dengue
At the ER, I tested positive for dengue. The doctor gave me two options:
- Go home, stay hydrated, and return daily for a complete blood count (CBC) test.
- Get admitted for close monitoring.
Given how severe my symptoms were, we chose hospital confinement.
The Battle with Dengue and Diabetes
Having both dengue and diabetes made my situation even more complicated. My hospital routine became exhausting, with constant monitoring:
CBC (Complete Blood Count) Tests
- Normally done every 24 hours to track my platelet count.
- When my platelet count dropped to two digits, it became more critical—they had to do CBC every 12 hours.
CBG (Capillary Blood Glucose) Tests
- Done every 4 to 6 hours to track my blood sugar levels.
- Dengue messes with metabolism and hydration, making blood sugar unpredictable.
Insulin Administration
- Given 3 times a day because I couldn’t take my usual oral diabetes medication due to dengue.
- Without insulin, my blood sugar could have skyrocketed, making recovery even harder.
Dengue itself was already scary, but balancing it with diabetes added another layer of stress. The hardest part was waiting—I had to be fever-free and have two consecutive platelet count increases before being discharged. The mental toll was just as heavy as the physical one.
Finally, after seven days in the hospital, I was cleared to go home on February 22. It was the longest and most draining hospital stay of my life.
Dengue Awareness: What You Should Know
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can lead to severe complications. Here’s what you should know:
1. Symptoms to Watch Out For:
- High fever
- Severe headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Skin rashes
- Muscle and joint pain
- Bleeding gums or nosebleeds (in severe cases)
2. Prevention is Better Than Cure:
- Use mosquito repellent, especially in dengue-prone areas.
- Keep your surroundings clean and free of stagnant water.
- Wear long sleeves and pants to minimize mosquito bites.
- Use mosquito nets and screens at home.
3. Seek Medical Attention Immediately:
- Dengue can worsen quickly. If you or a loved one experience symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
- Regular CBC tests help track platelet count and prevent complications.
The Reality of Hospitalization: A PhilHealth Rant
You’d think PhilHealth would be there to ease the burden, but nope—it comes with strings attached. They won’t cover your hospital bill unless:
- You no longer have a fever.
- Your platelet count has increased twice in consecutive tests.
So basically, if you're still sick and actively fighting dengue, they won’t help. This policy is frustrating because hospitalization costs pile up fast—yet you have to reach their “criteria” before they decide to assist.
Meanwhile, hospital bills keep rising, and patients like me have to wait and hope we meet PhilHealth’s conditions before discharge.
Never Underestimate Healthcare Workers
While PhilHealth's system was disappointing, the healthcare workers were the real heroes in this experience.
The doctors, nurses, and medical technicians who took care of me worked tirelessly to make sure I recovered. Every blood test, IV drip, temperature check, and insulin injection was done with patience and care. Even when I felt hopeless, they reassured me.
To all medical frontliners, I am forever grateful. You are the backbone of healthcare, and we should never take your hard work for granted.
My Recovery and Next Steps
Now, I am home recovering, but my battle isn't over yet. My platelet count still needs monitoring, and my body is still weak.
- I have to do another round of CBC on Friday to check my platelet count.
- I will see my doctor again on Saturday for further evaluation.
This whole experience was terrifying, exhausting, and humbling. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.
A Second Chance and Heartfelt Gratitude
I am beyond grateful to my husband, who took care of me and gave me a priesthood blessing during this difficult time. That blessing gave me strength and peace when I needed it the most.
To those who prayed for me, took the time to take my name to the temple for prayers, and checked on me constantly—thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your love and support gave me hope and encouragement.
To my doctors, nurses, and medical staff, I cannot thank you enough. You saved me.
Be Extra Careful with Dengue!
This experience was a wake-up call. Dengue is not just a minor illness—it can be life-threatening. What’s even scarier? It’s not even peak dengue season, yet cases are rising!
DOH Reports a 'Concerning Rise' in Dengue Cases
According to ABS-CBN News (Feb 17, 2025), the Department of Health (DOH) reported a 40% increase in dengue cases compared to last year.
Nine LGUs in NCR, Calabarzon, and Central Luzon have alarming case numbers, with Quezon City declaring an outbreak after reporting 10 deaths and over 1,700 cases in just two months.
Why is this happening so early in the year?
- Climate change is affecting mosquito breeding patterns.
- Poor community hygiene leads to more mosquito breeding grounds.
- Lack of awareness about prevention.
DOH urges everyone to take year-round preventive measures—not just during the rainy season. Dengue doesn’t wait for June or July. It’s already here.
Take Care and Stay Vigilant
I won’t waste this second chance at life. Dengue was the worst illness I have ever battled, and managing it alongside diabetes made it even harder.
I hope my story raises awareness so that others can take precautions and avoid what I went through.
Stay safe, stay protected, and take care of your health!