A dog attack can cause serious injuries, including deep puncture wounds, torn muscles, nerve damage and permanent scarring. However, the damage you can see is not necessarily the only threat to your health. Even a seemingly minor dog bite can introduce dangerous bacteria into your body, potentially leading to serious infections and other complications.
Understanding the risks associated with dog bites can help you recognize why prompt medical attention is important, even when an injury does not appear particularly severe.
What infections can result from a dog bite?
A dog’s mouth contains bacteria that can enter the body through broken skin. Some infections remain localized, while others can spread and become life-threatening without appropriate treatment.
Potential complications include:
- Rabies: Although rare in the United States, rabies is an extremely serious viral infection that is nearly always fatal once symptoms appear. Anyone bitten by a dog with an unknown vaccination history should seek immediate medical advice about possible exposure.
- Tetanus: This bacterial infection can cause painful muscle spasms and potentially life-threatening complications. Depending on your vaccination history and the nature of the wound, you may need a tetanus booster after a dog bite.
- Capnocytophaga: Although serious infections are uncommon, the bacteria can cause severe complications, including kidney failure, gangrene and sepsis, particularly in those with poor immune systems.
- Sepsis: An infection from a dog bite can sometimes trigger an extreme response by the body’s immune system. Sepsis is a medical emergency that can lead to organ failure and death without prompt treatment.
Why is prompt medical attention important?
Even a small puncture wound can trap bacteria beneath the skin. A medical professional can properly clean and assess the injury, determine whether antibiotics are necessary and evaluate your need for tetanus or rabies prevention.
Medical records can also document the extent of your injuries and any complications that develop. This information may prove valuable if you pursue a personal injury claim.
If you or a loved one is injured by a dog, protecting your health should be your first priority. Once you have received appropriate medical care, an experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights and explore your options for recovering compensation.
