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Tetanus(Lockjaw)
by
Cynthia M. Johnson, MA DefinitionTetanus is an infection of the nervous system. It can be deadly when it is not treated. There are different types. CausesTetanus is caused by bacteria that is found in soil, dust, or manure. It enters your body through a break in the skin. Once inside the bacteria makes a toxin. This toxin causes tetanus.
Risk FactorsTetanus is most common in places that have rich, moist climates. Other things that may raise your risk are:
SymptomsSymptoms may include:
DiagnosisThe doctor will ask about your symptoms and health past. An exam will be done. Vaccination history may be needed. This can be enough to make the diagnosis. TreatmentCare is needed right away. Some people may need help with breathing. Other treatments may include:
A tetanus vaccine may be given to those who have not had a recent one. PreventionThe best way to lower the chances of tetanus is to get the vaccination:
Other things that can lower the risk are:
RESOURCES:National Foundation for Infectious Diseases http://www.nfid.org National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases http://www.niaid.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES:Caring for Kids—Canadian Paediatric Society http://www.caringforkids.cps.ca The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca References:
Tetanus. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at:
https://www.dynamed.com/condition/tetanus. Updated May 14, 2018. Accessed March 18, 2020.
Tetanus vaccination. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Updated February 28, 2019. Accessed March 18, 2020. Thwaites CL, Beeching NJ, et al. Maternal and neonatal tetanus. Lancet. 2015 Jan 24;385(9965):362-370. Last reviewed March 2020 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Rimas Lukas, MD Last Updated: 9/9/2020 | |