If bitten by a dog, what are the symptoms of rabies in humans? - briefly
If you are bitten by a dog and suspect rabies exposure, immediate medical attention is crucial. Symptoms may include fever, headache, and muscle weakness, progressing to anxiety, confusion, and paralysis.
If bitten by a dog, what are the symptoms of rabies in humans? - in detail
Rabies is a severe viral infection that can be transmitted from animals to humans through bites or scratches. If you have been bitten by a dog and suspect rabies exposure, it's crucial to understand the symptoms of rabies in humans. The virus affects the central nervous system and can lead to fatal consequences if not promptly treated.
The initial symptoms of rabies in humans are often non-specific and may resemble those of other illnesses. These early signs typically appear between 20 days to three months after exposure, although they can sometimes develop more quickly or take longer. The first indications usually include:
- Fever: A general feeling of being unwell with a rise in body temperature.
- Headache: Persistent and often severe headaches that may not respond to typical pain relievers.
- Anxiety: Increased anxiety or nervousness, which can sometimes be extreme.
- Fatigue: A general sense of tiredness and weakness.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and possibly vomiting.
- Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia): Experiencing difficulty or discomfort when trying to swallow food or liquids.
As the disease progresses, more specific neurological symptoms become apparent. These can include:
- Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real.
- Confusion: Mental disorientation and difficulty concentrating.
- Agitation: Restlessness and irritability.
- Paralysis: Gradual paralysis, typically starting at the site of the bite and spreading throughout the body. This can lead to difficulty moving parts of the body or even complete immobility.
- Excessive Salivation (Hydrophobia): Abnormal and excessive production of saliva, which can make swallowing difficult and cause a fear of water.
- Seizures: Uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain that can result in convulsions or loss of consciousness.
- Fear of Water (Hydrophobia): A specific symptom associated with rabies, where the person experiences an intense fear of water and difficulties swallowing due to increased salivation.
In the late stage of the disease, symptoms can become severe and life-threatening. These may include:
- Coma: A state of deep unconsciousness from which the patient cannot be aroused.
- Respiratory Failure: Difficulty breathing or complete respiratory failure, which can lead to death.
If you experience any of these symptoms after being bitten by a dog, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for preventing the progression of rabies and saving lives.