Cuts by rusted iron metals, wood and pet bites can put you at a risk of a tetanus infection which is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria. Dr Ratan Vaish, Aastha Multi-Specialty Clinic tells you about the symptoms of the disease.
Mild grade fever–Fever is the most common symptom of a tetanus infection and usually manifests itself five days after the exposure to the bacteria.
Muscle stiffness–A stiff jaw, neck, and back are also common symptoms of a tetanus infection.
Generalised body ache– Muscle stiffness usually leads to a generalised body ache and many times patients also have a headache.
Sweating and dehydration–Excessive sweating and dehydration are also signs of a tetanus infection.
Low urine output and hard stool–Fever usually causes dehydration because of which the urine output decreases and the patient might also have hard stools.
Frequent urination and defecation–Since the muscles become weak, patients might find it difficult to hold their bladders and bowels which increase the frequency of urination and defecation.
Fractures–A tetanus infection makes bones and muscles weak which makes the patient more prone to fractures.
Suffocation–Suffocation is the end stage symptom of a tetanus infection and can lead to respiratory failure.
Lockjaw–Lockjaw is the terminal stage feature of the disease and usually manifests when the patient doesn’t receive treatment for a long time.