Clostridium tetani is responsible for causing tetanus which is commonly called as lockjaw. Take note that the bacteria usually move into the body via a cut or wound on the skin. Clostridium tetani produces a protein called tetanus toxin or tetanospasmin which assaults the nerve cells, resulting to the manifestation of spasms. It is important that you know how to recognize the initial symptoms of tetanus so that the individual can seek immediate medical care if the condition is suspected.
It is important to note that proper wound care must be observed in order to prevent Clostridium tetani from causing infection. All you have to do is to register for first aid training today.
Stiffness of the jaw muscle
Starting from the early infection with Clostridium tetani, the first symptoms of tetanus can range from 3-21 days. Generally, the symptoms will start on the 7th or 8th day after infection. In most cases, the initial symptom of tetanus includes spasms in the masseter muscles which are responsible for controlling the jaw. During a spasm, the masseter muscles become rigid and the jaw is fixed in a firmly closed position. Take note that this symptom of tetanus is known as lockjaw.
Facial spasms
The manifestation of facial spasms is considered as an initial symptom of tetanus. This usually occurs at the same time with the jaw symptoms. The muscle spasms on the face can lead to unusual expressions. The spasms that occur on the area surrounding the mouth can lead to a stiff, odd grin known as risus sardonicus.
Stiffness of the neck
An early symptom of tetanus can appear sequentially as the effects of the tetanus toxin moves downward through the body musculature. The stiffness of the neck usually follows after the facial and jaw spasms.
Difficulty swallowing
Difficulty in swallowing usually occurs right after the individual experiences stiffness of the neck. It is important to note that swallowing requires the coordinated action of several muscles. The spasms in the swallowing musculature tend to disrupt the coordinated effort required for swallowing.
Rigidity of the abdominal muscles
The abdominal muscle spasms and the rigidity can indicate further progression of tetanus. These spasms can cause the abdominal wall to feel hard to the touch.
Sweating and fever
The early muscular symptoms of tetanus are often accompanied by sweating and fever. Take note that these symptoms persist through the later stages of the condition.
Weakness and poor feeding among newborns
A rare form of the condition that affects newborns is called as neonatal tetanus. The condition occurs once the umbilical stump in contaminated by the Clostridium tetani bacteria. The early indications of neonatal tetanus typically include general muscle weakness and reduced feeding.
Muscle spasms close to the wound
Localized tetanus is considered as another uncommon form of the condition. With this form, the spasms only occur in the muscles that are close to the wound. Sweating and fever are not present with this form of tetanus.