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Got Hurt With A Rusty Nail. Hands Are Swollen And Painful. Could This Be Tetanus?
I got a small cut last sunday, the third. I believe what cut me was a piece of a rusty old nail that had been in that barn for a long time. Which means there is a good chance that the nail had manure on it too. Since a few days after that my hand seemed to be achey and at times, like it was swollen. Now, once in awhile it seems as though my whole body feels that way, not constant, as well as some slightly quickened breathing? Could it be tetanus?
Fri, 15 Nov 2013
Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
Broadly speaking, simple superficial abrasions with rusty metal will not lead to any complications (provided if the wound is primarily cleaned with an antiseptic lotion or soap). A single shot of Tetanus toxoid immediately after the injury, will provide more protection against developing tetanus.
Usually, Tetanus develops when the deeper tissues (muscles) are injured by a PENETRATING injury, depositing the Clostridium bacilli (tetanus bacilli) in an anaerobic environment promoting the growth and multiplication of the bacteria.
So, I personally feel that it is unlikely to be tetanus in your case. If you are concerned, approach a Physician for an examination and further management.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day
Broadly speaking, simple superficial abrasions with rusty metal will not lead to any complications (provided if the wound is primarily cleaned with an antiseptic lotion or soap). A single shot of Tetanus toxoid immediately after the injury, will provide more protection against developing tetanus.
Usually, Tetanus develops when the deeper tissues (muscles) are injured by a PENETRATING injury, depositing the Clostridium bacilli (tetanus bacilli) in an anaerobic environment promoting the growth and multiplication of the bacteria.
So, I personally feel that it is unlikely to be tetanus in your case. If you are concerned, approach a Physician for an examination and further management.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day
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