Is this a Capnocytophaga infection?

After getting bitten by a dog, you need to seek immediate medical attention. Unfortunately, from the moment a dog’s teeth pierces your skin, you could be at severe risk for infection.

Of these infections, those stemming from Capnocytophaga are unfortunately common one. Also unfortunate is the fact that these infections can cause permanent or even lethal damage.

Physical signs of infection

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention closely examine signs of Capnocytophaga infection. Many appear within the first few hours of a bite. However, some symptoms do not start appearing until 3 to 5 days after the initial bite in general. The general span of time for symptoms to start showing is anywhere between 1 and 14 days.

The first signs to appear usually involve the injury site itself. You may experience redness, swelling or pain. The bite may leak pus. Blisters could also start to appear around the wound, and this typically occurs within hours.

As the infection progresses, you will experience further symptoms. You may suffer from a fever. Stomach and intestinal problems also often happen. This can include vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea. You could experience confusion or headache. You may also deal with pain in your joints or muscles.

Potential life threatening consequences

Some victims experience severe complications or even sepsis. Some complications can include kidney failure, heart attack or gangrene. This often leads to the possibility of amputation. Sepsis affects the entire body and can result in death between 24 and 72 hours of the first symptoms showing.

To avoid these outcomes, you want to get quick treatment. It is the only way to ensure a bite’s infection does not get out of hand.