You need to seek immediate medical attention after suffering from a dog bite. The type of infections you can face within hours are numerous. On top of that, many can pose a potentially lethal threat, especially if left untreated.

Capnocytophaga infections are just one type that you could experience. But the potential lethal repercussions set this infection on a different level.

The onset of symptoms

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discuss how Capnocytophaga infection may manifest. First, note that symptoms can initially start showing in several hours. The majority of people will experience the bulk of their symptoms within 3 to 5 days after a bite. However, it is possible for symptoms to appear anywhere from 1 to 14 days after a bite attack.

The first symptoms are going to show on or around the immediate area of the injury. Your bite wound will likely look red and swollen. It may feel tender or painful and could also feel warm or hot to the touch. With Capnocytophaga infections, you may notice blistering in the area within hours, too.

Physical red flags

The other symptoms may appear over hours or days. They can include vomiting, diarrhea or stomach pains and cramps. You can experience full body soreness and pain especially in the muscles and joints. You may also experience a headache, which can include confusion. Fever is common, too.

On top of that, you might experience severe effects if you leave the infection untreated. This can include kidney failure, heart attack or even gangrene, which can lead to amputation. Finally, you may experience sepsis, a fast-acting blood infection that can result in death within 24 to 72 hours after the onset of first symptoms. Needless to say, you want to get treatment as fast as possible.