Most of us have received tetanus vaccinations throughout our lives. However, you may find yourself wondering what exactly a tetanus infection is and why it is so important to stay up-to-date on your immunizations.
What is tetanus?
Also known as lockjaw, tetanus is a rare but potentially life-threatening disease caused by a toxin-producing bacterium called Clostridium tetani. This bacterium is found in soil and animal feces and stays in a dormant state until it finds a place to thrive. Once the dormant bacteria enters a wound, it begins growing and dividing. During this time, they release a toxin called tetanospasmin which impacts the nerves in the body that control your muscles, leading to muscle contractions. These contractions generally occur in your jaw and neck muscles.
There are a few different types of tetanus. The most common type of tetanus is called generalized tetanus. The symptoms normally start in the jaw and move down into the body. Meanwhile, local tetanus occurs at the site of a wound. Cephalic tetanus describes a form of tetanus that results from a head wound and causes weakened muscles in the face and spasms of the jaw muscles. Both Cephalic and localized tetanus are generally less severe than generalized tetanus but it can spread if not managed correctly.
What are the symptoms of tetanus?
The incubation period of tetanus can range from anywhere between 3 to 21 days with an average of 10 days between the time of infection to the first signs and symptoms.
Some of the symptoms of tetanus include:
● Painful spasms in your jaw and neck
● Tension in the muscles surrounding your lips
● Rigid abdominal muscles
● Difficulty swallowing
● Painful, seizure-like spasms cause the neck and back to arch, the legs to become rigid, and the fists to clench. These seizures can last for several minutes and can be triggered by something triggering your senses.
● High blood pressure
● Low blood pressure
● Fever
● Extreme sweating
● Rapid heart rate
Is tetanus serious?
Yes, it can be very serious. If you have any of the signs or symptoms of tetanus, you should seek emergency care immediately. Some of the serious complications associated with tetanus include breathing problems caused by muscle rigidity in the neck and abdomen and the tightening of the vocal cords, a blood clot in a lung artery, broken bones, and pneumonia.
How do you get tetanus?
Tetanus is acquired when the bacteria enter an open wound. People are most at risk of a tetanus infection if the cuts or wounds were exposed to soil or manure, if a foreign body gets caught in the wound, or if the patient has a history of immune-suppressing medical conditions, or has used unsanitary needles for illegal drug use.
If you have not had a tetanus shot in 10 years or are unsure of when your last vaccination was AND you experience a puncture wound, animal bite, deep cut, or a foreign object such as a nail or splinter in your wound, you should seek medical care immediately.
Is there a cure for tetanus?
There is no cure for tetanus and the only treatment option is to manage the symptoms and components until the tetanus leaves your body.
How do you prevent tetanus?
The easiest way to prevent tetanus is by being vaccinated. Vaccines are generally given to children as part of the DTaP vaccine (diphtheria and tetanus toxoids and acellular pertussis vaccine). This is a series of five shots given during early childhood. A booster shot is recommended for children at age 11 or 12 and then every 10 years after that. It is also recommended during the third trimester of pregnancy.
