Paralytic rabies is a severe form of rabies that affects the nervous system and can cause paralysis. The word "paralytic" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /pəˈrælətɪk/, which includes the syllables "pa-," "-ra-," and "-lytic". The word "rabies" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈreɪbiz/, which includes the syllables "ra-" and "-bies". The correct spelling of "paralytic rabies" is important for medical professionals to accurately diagnose and treat this serious disease.
Paralytic rabies is a severe viral disease that affects the central nervous system of humans and animals. It is caused by the rabies virus, which is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, primarily through bites. Paralytic rabies is one of the two major clinical forms of rabies, the other being furious rabies.
In paralytic rabies, the virus attacks the nerves, including the spinal cord and brain, leading to progressive paralysis of muscles throughout the body. The disease gradually progresses from the site of the bite towards the brain, resulting in initial symptoms such as pain or numbness at the infection site. As the infection spreads, more severe symptoms manifest, including muscle weakness, loss of muscle control, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, and ultimately, paralysis. The affected individual may also experience sensory disturbances, such as tingling or burning sensations.
Unlike furious rabies, which primarily causes behavioral changes, aggression, and hyperactivity, paralytic rabies is characterized by the absence of these symptoms and instead presents with profound muscle weakness and paralysis. This form of rabies often leads to a rapid deterioration of the individual's health, resulting in a coma and eventual death due to respiratory failure or other complications.
Prompt medical attention is crucial in suspected cases of paralytic rabies, as there is no known cure for the disease once symptoms appear. Prevention through vaccination is vital, particularly for individuals at high risk of exposure to rabies, such as those working closely with animals.
A form or stage marked by an ascending paralysis, dumb r.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "paralytic rabies" has two main components: "paralytic" and "rabies".
1. Paralytic:
The word "paralytic" is derived from the noun "paralysis" and the suffix "-ic". "Paralysis" originates from the Greek word "paralysis" (παράλυσις), which means "disablement, paralysis". It is formed by combining the prefix "para-" (παρά), meaning "beside, beyond", and "lysis" (λύσις), meaning "loosening, release, dissolution". The suffix "-ic" indicates that "paralytic" is an adjective form, denoting "relating to or characterized by paralysis".
2. Rabies:
The word "rabies" comes from the Latin term "rabies" meaning "madness, frenzy".