Rabies - Symptoms

Eventually, early symptoms of rabies begin to appear. These symptoms include a sore throat, low-grade fever (above normal, but in the lower ranges), headache, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, and diarrhea. Painful spasms (contractions) may develop in the muscles that control breathing and swallowing. The infected person may begin to drool thick saliva. Other symptoms include dilated (enlarged) pupils, increased flow of tears and perspiration, and low blood pressure.

As the disease progresses the patient may begin to feel excited, confused, and sensitive to bright lights, loud noises, and touch. He or she becomes very thirsty but is unable to drink because swallowing is so painful. Just looking at water can cause painful spasms. It is this reaction that accounts for the name hydrophobia. Other severe symptoms include excessive salivation, dehydration, and loss of muscle tone (quality). Death usually occurs three to twenty days after symptoms first appear. Once a person or animal has developed rabies, recovery is very rare.