How does it manifest if bitten by a rabid dog? - briefly
If bitten by a rabid dog, symptoms typically appear within one to three months and may include fever, headache, and weakness. As the disease progresses, it can lead to confusion, agitation, hallucinations, and paralysis.
How does it manifest if bitten by a rabid dog? - in detail
Rabies is a severe and often fatal viral infection that affects the nervous system. When transmitted through a bite from a rabid dog, the symptoms typically develop in stages. Initially, the person may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, loss of appetite, and fatigue. These early signs can be non-specific and might be mistaken for other illnesses.
As the disease progresses, more specific neurological symptoms begin to manifest. These can include:
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Localized Symptoms: Pain, burning sensation, or tingling at the site of the bite. This is often one of the first indicators that the infection has started to affect the nervous system.
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Anxiety and Agitation: Increased anxiety, irritability, and restlessness are common as the virus spreads through the body. The person may become more sensitive to light (photophobia) and sound (phonophobia).
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Hydrophobia: This is one of the most well-known symptoms of rabies. It refers to a fear or inability to swallow liquids, even when feeling thirsty. Attempting to drink water can cause spasms in the muscles at the back of the throat, leading to difficulty swallowing and intense anxiety.
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Paralysis: As the virus continues to affect the nervous system, paralysis can develop. This may start with weakness in the limbs and progress to full paralysis. The paralysis is usually symmetrical and ascending, meaning it affects both sides of the body and moves from the extremities towards the core.
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Altered Mental State: Changes in mental status can occur, including confusion, hallucinations, and aggressive behavior. In some cases, the person may exhibit bizarre or erratic behavior.
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Seizures: Convulsions and seizures are also possible as the virus disrupts normal brain function.
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Coma and Death: The final stage of rabies is often characterized by coma and death. Once a person reaches this stage, there is no known treatment to reverse the infection.
It's crucial to note that once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. Therefore, if you suspect exposure to rabies—such as through a dog bite—it is essential to seek immediate medical attention and follow the recommended protocol for post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes vaccination and, in some cases, administration of rabies immunoglobulin. Early intervention is key to preventing the onset of symptoms and saving lives.