|
|
Unfortunately necrotizing fasciitis often
has flu-like symptoms, so initially, the natural assumption is for
the individual to believe they have the flu. Often, NF occurs in otherwise
healthy, active individuals. No major trauma is necessary. In fact,
the condition often occurs following minor trauma, or even a bruise
or abrasion. As mentioned above, it can occur after surgery.
Perhaps
the most troubling and frightening aspect of NF is its remarkable
ability mimic minor afflictions -- which fools both the patient
and the doctor. Misdiagnosis is very common, which, in light of
the speed and deadliness of the infection, often has severe consequences,
such as multiple limb amputation and too often, death. In post-surgical
patients, NF often mimics common post-operative symptoms such as
severe pain, inflammation, fever and nausea, which also thwarts
a timely diagnosis.
Education
and awareness by the general public as well as the medical community
in recognizing symptoms is critical to saving lives. The following
depicts general symptoms of NF as the disease advances:
- Trauma
of some type (however slight) will probably have occurred
(cut, bruise, scratch, surgery).
- Victim
begins to feel an annoying discomfort in the general region
of the trauma (in the case of NNFF co-founder Donna, she
felt the type of pain one feels after working out a little
too hard in her upper arm, the day after getting a small
cut on her finger).
- The
pain described gets worse, the area more tender. This is
one of the major things to keep in mind. The pain one feels
is out of proportion to the injury.
- Flu-like
symptoms occur, such as vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration,
general malaise, weakness, muscle pain, and fever.
- Tissue
is swollen and there may or may not be redness noted. The
area will feel hot to the touch, and very painful.
- Conditions continue to worsen.
- Urination becomes less frequent (as the system dehydrates)
- Blood pressure drops severely, and heartbeat is rapid.
- A sunburn type rash may appear over the entire body, due to
toxins released from the bacteria. This may or may not be
present.
- Large,
dark boil-like blister(s) may or may not form in the affected
area
- Toxic
shock can ensue as the body's organs shut down.
It is
important that the patient report all symptoms to his or her physician
to ensure a swift and accurate diagnosis! |
|
