Rabies is a deadly virus spread through the saliva of animals. Humans become infected through bites from animals such as dogs, bats and raccoons. The virus is carried in the animal saliva and transmitted into the bloodstream through the bite. The virus travels in the bloodstream from the wound site to the brain. Symptoms do not appear immediately, but it is imperative that you seek treatment immediately after being bitten.
Neurological and Muscular Changes
Some of the most prevalent symptoms of rabies are changes in the functioning of the muscles and nerves, particularly the ones closest to the wound site. Some people experience changes in sensation at the site of the animal bite; it typically feels like tingling or sensations of hot and cold. Some people experience partial temporary paralysis in the limbs or loss of muscle control or function. General numbness or tingling may occur as well as pain or soreness in the limbs.
Spasmic Symptoms
In milder cases, some people experience insomnia, extreme restlessness or irritability. In more severe cases, some people experience spasmic symptoms (i.e. convulsions, muscle spasms or throat spasms). The severity of these symptoms is an indication that the animal's infection had progressed significantly at the time of the bite.
Salivary Symptoms
Because rabies is spread through infected saliva, it is not uncommon to experience salivary symptoms, such as excessive salivation or even drooling. As the virus makes its way to the brain, it can infect the muscles and glands along the way. Because the salivary glands are fairly sensitive, they can cause excessive salivation, a sore throat or difficulty in swallowing.
Emotional Symptoms
It is not clear whether emotional symptoms are a direct result of the infection or a result of the stress around the infection. However, some people have reported experiencing the following emotional symptoms: confusion, anxiety, stress, tension, excitability and agitation.
