How does rabies manifest in humans after being bitten by a dog? - briefly
Rabies in humans typically manifests with non-specific symptoms initially, such as fever and headache. As the disease progresses, it leads to acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), causing symptoms like anxiety, confusion, agitation, paralysis, and eventually death if left untreated.
How does rabies manifest in humans after being bitten by a dog? - in detail
Rabies, caused by the rabies virus (RABV), is a severe and often fatal disease that can be transmitted from dogs to humans through bites. The manifestation of rabies in humans follows a progressive course, with distinct stages characterized by specific symptoms.
Initially, the site of the bite may present with minor symptoms such as pain, itching, or tingling sensations. However, these early signs are often overlooked and can be misleading, as they may not immediately suggest rabies infection. The incubation period for rabies in humans varies but typically ranges from 20 to 90 days, with an average of about 30-50 days. During this time, the virus travels through the nervous system to the brain.
As the disease progresses, the first noticeable symptoms emerge, often referred to as the prodromal stage. At this point, individuals may experience nonspecific flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and malaise. These symptoms can be misdiagnosed as a common viral infection, leading to delays in proper treatment.
The next stage is characterized by more specific neurological symptoms, which occur due to the virus's direct effect on the brain and nervous system. These symptoms include anxiety, confusion, agitation, and insomnia. There may also be signs of hydrophobia (fear of water), which is a classic symptom of rabies. When attempting to drink water, patients experience difficulty swallowing and spasms in the throat muscles, leading to a fear of water.
In the later stages of rabies, symptoms become more severe and debilitating. Patients may develop paralysis, starting with the limbs and eventually affecting the entire body. Muscle spasms, particularly around the jaw and throat, can be intense and painful. Delirium, hallucinations, and seizures are also common at this stage.
The final stage of rabies is marked by coma and death, typically within a few days after the onset of neurological symptoms. Once clinical signs of rabies appear, the disease is nearly always fatal, with survival rates less than 1%.
In summary, the manifestation of rabies in humans following a dog bite progresses through several stages, from minor local symptoms at the site of the bite to nonspecific flu-like symptoms, followed by specific neurological signs, and ultimately leading to coma and death. Early recognition and prompt treatment are crucial for preventing this fatal outcome.