Tetanus Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Learn about tetanus, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Understand how this serious infection develops, its complications, and the importance of vaccination for prevention.
Written by Dr. J T Hema Pratima
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 1st Sep, 2025
Introduction
Tetanus is a serious bacterial infection that affects the nervous system and can lead to painful muscle stiffness and spasms. While rare in countries with good vaccination programs, it can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and treatment can help you stay informed and take preventive measures.
What Is Tetanus?
Tetanus, also called lockjaw, is caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. This bacterium produces a toxin that affects the nerves, leading to severe muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck. Without treatment, tetanus can interfere with breathing and become fatal.
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
Symptoms of Tetanus
Symptoms usually appear 3 to 21 days after infection, with an average of 8 days. The most common signs include:
- Stiffness in the jaw (lockjaw) – Difficulty opening the mouth or swallowing.
- Painful muscle spasms – Often in the neck, abdomen, and back.
- Muscle stiffness – Starting in the jaw and spreading to other muscles.
- Fever and sweating – Due to the body’s response to infection.
- Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure – Caused by nerve disturbances.
- Difficulty breathing – Severe cases may lead to respiratory failure.
In newborns, tetanus (neonatal tetanus) can cause muscle rigidity, difficulty feeding, and seizures.
What Causes Tetanus?
Tetanus is caused by the Clostridium tetani bacterium, which is commonly found in:
- Soil
- Dust
- Animal feces
The bacteria enter the body through:
- Cuts or puncture wounds (especially from rusty nails, animal bites, or deep injuries).
- Burns or surgical wounds if not properly cleaned.
- Injections with contaminated needles (rare in medical settings).
Unlike other infections, tetanus is not contagious; it doesn’t spread from person to person.
How Does Tetanus Affect Health?
The toxin produced by the bacteria disrupts nerve signals, causing:
- Uncontrollable muscle spasms – Can be strong enough to fracture bones.
- Breathing difficulties – Due to spasms in the chest and throat muscles.
- Autonomic nervous system problems – Leading to irregular heartbeats and blood pressure fluctuations.
Without treatment, tetanus can be fatal, especially in older adults or unvaccinated individuals.
Treatment for Tetanus
There is no cure for tetanus, but early medical care can manage symptoms and prevent complications. Treatment includes:
1. Wound Care – Cleaning the wound to remove bacteria.
2. Tetanus Immunoglobulin (TIG) – An injection to neutralize the toxin.
3. Antibiotics – To kill the bacteria (e.g., metronidazole or penicillin).
4. Muscle Relaxants – To control spasms (e.g., diazepam).
5. Supportive Care – Breathing assistance if needed.
Recovery can take weeks to months, and severe cases may require hospitalization.
Prevention: How to Avoid Tetanus
The best way to prevent tetanus is through vaccination. The DTaP (for children) and Tdap (for adults) vaccines protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Vaccination Schedule:
- Children: 5 doses (2, 4, 6, and 15–18 months, and 4–6 years).
- Adults: A booster shot every 10 years.
- Pregnant women: Tdap vaccine in the third trimester.
Additional Prevention Tips:
- Clean wounds immediately with soap and water.
- Avoid using dirt or saliva on cuts.
- Seek medical help for deep or dirty wounds if your last tetanus shot was over 5 years ago.
When to See a Doctor
- Seek immediate medical attention if:
- You have a deep or dirty wound and haven’t had a tetanus shot in the last 5 years.
- You experience jaw stiffness or muscle spasms after an injury.
- You notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).
If you're unsure about your vaccination status or need a booster, you can easily book a consultation or schedule a vaccination through Apollo 24|7.
Final Thoughts
Tetanus is a dangerous but preventable disease. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations and practicing good wound care can significantly reduce your risk. If you suspect exposure, don’t delay; seek medical help immediately.
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr Anand Jat
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD Medicine
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Afreen Banu Khan
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, DDM (Diab). FCC (Cardio)
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai
Consult a General Physician for the best advice
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Chethan T L
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
5 Years • MBBS, MD, DNB (General Medicine)
Bengaluru
Apollo Medical Center, Marathahalli, Bengaluru
Dr Anand Jat
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, MD Medicine
Bhopal
Apollo Sage Hospitals, Bhopal
Dr. Afreen Banu Khan
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
8 Years • MBBS, DDM (Diab). FCC (Cardio)
Chennai
Apollo Speciality Hospitals OMR, Chennai