Tetanus, commonly known as “lockjaw,” is a serious bacterial infection caused by Clostridium tetani. The bacteria produce a toxin that affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness and spasms.
Causes:
Tetanus bacteria are found in soil, dust, and animal feces. They can enter the body through:
- Puncture wounds (e.g. stepping on a nail)
- Cuts or breaks in the skin
- Burns
- Animal bites
- Intravenous drug use
- Infection of the umbilical cord in newborns (neonatal tetanus)
Symptoms:
Symptoms of tetanus can appear within a few days to several weeks after infection. They include:
- Muscle stiffness, especially in the jaw (lockjaw)
- Difficulty swallowing
- Restlessness or irritability
- Stiff neck, arms, or legs
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Muscle spasms, often triggered by minor stimuli
- Seizures
Treatment:
Tetanus is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment. Treatment typically involves:
- Wound care: Cleaning the wound thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
- Medications:
- Tetanus immune globulin (TIG): An injection of antibodies that neutralizes the tetanus toxin.
- Antibiotics: To kill the tetanus bacteria.
- Muscle relaxants: To control muscle spasms.
- Sedatives: To help with restlessness and anxiety.
- Supportive care:
- Maintaining an open airway and providing breathing support if needed.
- Controlling pain and other symptoms.
- Nutritional support.
Prevention:
Tetanus is preventable through vaccination. The tetanus vaccine is usually given in combination with diphtheria and pertussis vaccines (DTaP or Tdap). Boosters are recommended every 10 years to maintain immunity.
If you have a puncture wound or other deep wound, it’s important to see a doctor, especially if:
- The wound is dirty or contaminated.
- You haven’t had a tetanus shot in the past five years.
- You aren’t sure about your vaccination status.
Prompt medical attention can help prevent tetanus infection.
PS: Please feel free to share our articles with friends and family.
© 2024 The Pediatric Center Children Hospital
2a Sulaimon Abdullahi Street, Agungi, Lekki, Lagos
Road 2, House 20, Greenland Estate, Olokonla, Ajah-Sangotedo, Lagos
14, Bassie Ogamba Street Off Adeniran Ogunsanya Surulere, Lagos
Unsubscribe