What are the symptoms if bitten by a rabid dog? - briefly
If bitten by a rabid dog, initial symptoms may include pain, itching, or tingling at the site of the bite. Within days to weeks, more severe symptoms such as fever, headache, and general weakness can develop, followed by neurological symptoms like hydrophobia and paralysis.
What are the symptoms if bitten by a rabid dog? - in detail
Rabies is a viral disease that affects the gray matter of the brain and central nervous system. When a person is bitten by a rabid dog, the symptoms can be severe and life-threatening if not treated promptly. The incubation period, which is the time from exposure to the onset of symptoms, can vary from a few days to several years, but it is typically around one to three months. Symptoms can be categorized into two main phases: the prodromal phase and the acute neurological phase.
During the prodromal phase, the initial symptoms are often non-specific and may include fever, headache, and general weakness. The bite site may also exhibit pain, tingling, or itching. As the virus travels to the brain, more specific neurological symptoms begin to emerge. These can include:
- Anxiety and agitation
- Confusion and difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Hallucinations and delusions
- Hypersalivation, or excessive drooling, due to difficulty swallowing
- Hydrophobia, or fear of water, which is a classic symptom of rabies. This occurs because the throat muscles spasm when the person attempts to drink, making swallowing painful and difficult.
- Photophobia, or sensitivity to light
As the disease progresses to the acute neurological phase, symptoms become more pronounced and debilitating. The person may experience:
- Partial paralysis or weakness in the muscles, often starting at the site of the bite and progressing to the rest of the body
- Seizures and convulsions
- Loss of consciousness and coma
- Cardiovascular and respiratory failure, which can lead to death
It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if a person has been bitten by a dog suspected of having rabies. Prompt administration of post-exposure prophylaxis, which includes a series of vaccines and, in some cases, rabies immunoglobulin, can prevent the onset of symptoms and save the person's life. Early treatment is essential, as rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear. It is also important to report the incident to local health authorities and ensure that the animal is observed or tested for rabies, if possible.