How does rabies manifest in humans from a dog bite? - briefly
Rabies in humans typically manifests with initial symptoms such as fever and headache, progressing to nervous system disorders like anxiety, confusion, and hallucinations. As the disease advances, paralysis sets in, leading to coma and death if left untreated.
How does rabies manifest in humans from a dog bite? - in detail
Rabies is a severe and often fatal viral infection that can be transmitted to humans through the saliva of an infected animal, most commonly via a dog bite. The clinical manifestations of rabies in humans are typically divided into three stages: prodromal, acute neurological, and coma.
The prodromal stage is characterized by nonspecific symptoms that may include fever, headache, malaise, and myalgia. These initial signs can be easily overlooked or attributed to other conditions, making early diagnosis challenging. The incubation period for rabies varies greatly, from a few days to several years, with the average being around 30-90 days. This variability depends on factors such as the location and severity of the bite, as well as the amount of virus inoculated.
As the disease progresses into the acute neurological stage, more specific symptoms emerge, including anxiety, insomnia, and an intense fear of water (hydrophobia). This stage is often marked by painful muscle spasms triggered by attempts to swallow water or saliva, leading to difficulty in drinking and eating. Other notable symptoms include photophobia, a severe aversion to light, and paraesthesia, abnormal sensations such as tingling or burning at the site of the bite.
The final stage of rabies is characterized by coma and death. The patient may experience hallucinations, delirium, and seizures before lapsing into a comatose state. Respiratory failure often follows, leading to the cessation of breathing and ultimately, death. Once symptoms appear, rabies is nearly always fatal, with very few cases of survival reported globally.
Prompt medical attention and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are crucial in preventing the onset of clinical symptoms. PEP typically involves thorough wound cleaning, administration of human rabies immunoglobulin, and a course of rabies vaccine. Early intervention can effectively prevent the virus from reaching the central nervous system, thus averting the development of rabies.
In conclusion, rabies in humans following a dog bite manifests through distinct clinical stages, from nonspecific prodromal symptoms to severe neurological signs and ultimately, coma and death. Timely recognition and appropriate medical care are essential for preventing this fatal outcome.