Dr. Lee Barnes weighs in on what to do if recall y'all've been exposed to tetanus.

A current tetanus vaccination it vital to protect you against disease. While tetanus is rare in the Us, due to vaccination, it can all the same be fatal if left untreated, especially for infants and the elderly. Information technology is disquisitional to seek medical treatment immediately if you have an injury that may put you at risk for tetanus.

"Tetanus is caused when the spores of the bacteria Clostridium tetani enter your body through an injury or wound. Oft times, it is acquired by a puncture wound, such equally stepping on a nail, burns or a wound that got contaminated," said White-Wilson Family Medicine Physician, Dr. Lee Barnes.

The tetanus bacteria are found in soil, animal feces and saliva. Tetanus has also been known every bit lockjaw since some of the main symptoms are jaw cramping, difficulty swallowing and musculus spasm. While at that place is not a exam to diagnose tetanus, doctors will evaluate a person and look for signs and symptoms that tetanus is present.

Symptoms for tetanus include:

  • Lockjaw or jaw cramping
  • Fever
  • Fast centre rate
  • Difficulty animate or swallowing
  • Musculus spasms (ofttimes in the belly)
  • Muscle stiffness and tightening
  • Seizures (jerking or staring)
  • Excessive sweating

"Most cases of tetanus in the United States are amidst people that have not received the tetanus vaccine or are not up to date on their booster shots," said Dr. Barnes. "If left untreated, tetanus is fatal in up to a 4th of cases. The best fashion to protect against tetanus is to receive the tetanus vaccination."

The Centers for Disease Control recommends tetanus vaccines from infancy throughout adulthood. Click here for a recommended tetanus vaccination schedule.

One time exposed to tetanus, the incubation period is commonly between iii and 21 days, depending on the severity of the exposure. Typically, individuals infected with tetanus will start seeing symptoms afterwards 14 days.

"If you have the signs and symptoms of tetanus or retrieve you may exist exposed, seek medical attending immediately," said Dr. Barnes. "Treatment for tetanus may include hospitalization, tetanus vaccination, antibiotics, muscle relaxers for muscle spasms, a medication called human tetanus immune globulin, wound care and in extreme cases, breathing back up."

Call your health intendance provider right abroad if you have been injured outdoors, have a wound that has had contact with the soil or if you take non received a tetanus booster in the final v years. A variety of new vaccines are available, and they tin can protect yous for other illnesses also. Talk with your doctor about what options would be best for yous.

"Keep in mind tetanus is rare today due to vaccination," said Dr. Barnes. "It is best to avoid tetanus all together. Adults should stay upward to date on their ten-year tetanus booster shots, and follow the recommended vaccination schedule for children."

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