According to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, tetanus is easily prevented by vaccination, and while there are fewer than 50 cases reported annually in the United States, 10 to 20 percent of reported cases are fatal. Almost all cases occur when the person has not received the necessary series of vaccinations or have not had a booster vaccination within the past ten years. Tetanus toxin is typically found in manure, soil and dust and is contracted through an open wound.
Spasms
The Mayo Clinic states that the first symptom of tetanus is muscle spasms, typically occurring in the neck and jaw and making it difficult to swallow. Spasms may also occur in the back, abdomen and chest as the toxin spreads to the nerves. While the first symptoms usually begin seven days after exposure, incubation may be from three days to three weeks.
Stiffness
As the spasms become stronger, stiffness will spread in the affected areas, which lends the term "lockjaw" to the condition. Primarily in the jaw and neck region, like spasms the stiffness may spread to the chest, abdomen and back, making the affected region rigid.
Breathing Problems
As the disease progresses, the spasms and stiffness will affect the respiratory system and make breathing difficult. At this point, the tetanus patient may be placed on a ventilator to facilitate lung function. Tetanus patients typically spend several weeks in the hospital for full recovery.
Possible Symptoms
The tetanus patient may experience muscle irritability, fever and sweats, but these symptoms do not occur in every case.
