Lockjaw, also known as Tetanus, is a serious bacterial disease that affects the nervous system. It’s characterized by painful muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck.
Causes of Lockjaw
Lockjaw is caused by a bacterium called Clostridium tetani. The bacteria enter the body through a wound, and produce a toxin that enters the bloodstream and travels to the nervous system. The toxin affects the communication between your nerves and muscles, causing muscle spasms and stiffness.
How the Bacteria Enter the Body?
The bacteria can enter the body through any kind of wound or injury, including puncture wounds, burns, insect bites, animal bites, and surgical incisions. Even a small wound can result in tetanus if the bacteria are present.
Symptoms of Lockjaw
The symptoms of lockjaw usually appear within a week after the infection, although it can take longer than that. The symptoms may include:
- Painful muscle contractions that begin in the jaw and neck and spread to the rest of the body
- Stiffness in the jaw muscles
- Fever and sweating
- Difficulty swallowing and breathing
- Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure
- Muscle spasms that are triggered by noise, light, or touch
Complications of Lockjaw
Lockjaw can lead to serious complications if left untreated. The muscle contractions can become so strong that they cause bone fractures and spine injuries. The spasms can also cause breathing difficulties and even heart failure in severe cases.
Treatment for Lockjaw
The treatment for lockjaw involves cleaning the wound and administering antibiotics to kill the bacteria. In severe cases, tetanus antitoxin may be given to neutralize the toxin that’s already in the bloodstream. A muscle relaxant may also be prescribed to reduce muscle spasms.
Prevention of Lockjaw
The best way to prevent lockjaw is to get vaccinated against tetanus. The vaccine is usually given as part of the childhood immunization schedule, and booster shots are recommended every 10 years. You should also make sure to clean any wound thoroughly and seek medical attention if you have a deep or dirty wound.
Conclusion
Lockjaw is a serious disease that requires prompt medical attention. If you experience any symptoms of tetanus, such as painful muscle contractions and stiff jaw muscles, seek medical attention immediately. Vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from this disease.
Common Questions and Answers
- Q: What’s the best way to prevent lockjaw?
- A: The best way to prevent lockjaw is to get vaccinated against tetanus and clean any wound thoroughly. Booster shots are recommended every 10 years.
- Q: Can lockjaw be fatal?
- A: Yes, lockjaw can be fatal if left untreated. The muscle contractions can cause bone fractures, spine injuries, breathing difficulties, and heart failure.
- Q: How is lockjaw treated?
- A: The treatment for lockjaw involves cleaning the wound, administering antibiotics, and tetanus antitoxin. A muscle relaxant may also be prescribed to reduce muscle spasms.
References
- CDC. (2021). Tetanus. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/tetanus/index.html
- Mayo Clinic. (2021). Tetanus. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tetanus/symptoms-causes/syc-20351625
- MedlinePlus. (2021). Tetanus. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/tetanus.html