A rat bite is a common injury that many people may not know the symptoms of. A rat bite can be very dangerous for pregnant women, as they are more susceptible to infection.
What Are The Symptoms Of A Rat Bite During Pregnancy?
We have discussed some signs of a rat bite during pregnancy below:
1. Flu Is A Sign Of A Rat Bite During Pregnancy
When you get the flu as a symptom of a rat bite during pregnancy, the first thing you might do is panic. But it’s important to know that rats can’t pass on some of these infections through their bites.
The only cases where rats can pass illnesses are those where they were chewing or eating out infected flesh.
Your doctor will work to determine what illness you’ve contracted. He’ll guide you about treating it while you’re pregnant, even if the treatment beds rest and over-the-counter medications.
It’s important that they rule out any other possible causes for your flu that may not be related to a rat bite.
2. Getting Hives Can Be Due To A Rat Bite
Hives are not always related to rat bites, but it’s wise to see your doctor if you’re concerned.
Hives are swollen areas on the skin, red in color, and can be anywhere from pea-sized to much larger than a golf ball. The hives might burn or itch. You may experience itching or tingling before the hives show up.
3. You Might Get A Fever As A Result Of Rat Bite
The only thing worse than waking up with flu symptoms is waking up with Fever. Experiencing Fever makes the illness much more uncomfortable.
Rat bites don’t cause much in the way of fever, but if you got a fever right after the rat’s bite then inform your doctor.
4. Swollen Lymph Nodes – A Symptom Of Rat Bite During Pregnancy
Rat bites don’t typically cause swollen lymph nodes, but a flea or tick bite can. If you’re unsure of what could have bitten you and your doctor rules out rat bites as a possibility, they may check for other causes.
It means testing your blood to determine if the infection came from a bug of some kind.
5. You Might Have Painful Or Difficult Breathing
Rat bites aren’t usually severe enough to cause much in the way of pain, and they don’t typically cause any difficulty breathing.
These are two extreme medical conditions associated with rat bites. And it’s important to know if this sounds like what you experienced after being bitten.
6. Swollen Eyes Or Rash Are Symptoms Of A Rat Bite During Pregnancy
Rat bites aren’t associated with swollen or closed eyes but are more associated with rashes if the wound looks like it’s infected. Inform your doctors about swollen eyes symptoms; it might be a rat bite.
7. A Lousy Wound Is A Symptom
Bad wounds, including infected ones, are not typically associated with rat bites but can be if the wound itself was chewed open.
This can cause an infection that spreads to other parts of your body and requires treatment to avoid further complications. If you’re uncertain about the cause of your wound, be sure to talk it over with a doctor as soon as possible.
8. Pus Is A Symptom Of A Rat Bite During Pregnancy
Rat bites don’t typically lead to pus forming in or around the wound unless there was already an infection present.
In this case, the pus from the wound may be streaked with blood and contain other particles such as dirt or flecks of clothing.
What To Do If A Rat Has Bitten You During Pregnancy?
If you think that a rat has bitten you during your pregnancy, the first thing to do is wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. If there was any chance that someone else’s teeth were involved, be sure to clean yourself well after removing foreign particles from the wound before treating it.
Resist the urge to apply pressure if the blood continues to seep from the wound after you’ve washed it.
If the wound bleeds a lot, your doctor may elect to run a blood test so that they can determine if there’s something dangerous in your blood requiring treatment. If you have a fever or start to feel sick in any way, be sure to tell your doctor about the bite and whatever symptoms you may be experiencing.
If the wound is large, a doctor can determine if it needs stitches or other types of treatment. If it’s infected, it will require antibiotic treatment.
How To Prevent Being Bitten By Rats While Pregnant
What can you do to prevent rat bites during pregnancy? Rat bites aren’t prevalent, but if you live or work in an area that’s more prone to rats, then there are some things that you can do to reduce the chances of being bitten.
Wear gloves while doing projects around your home if rats are present. If you notice that you have a rat infestation, be sure to contact your local pest control company to get it under control.
Seal Holes/Cracks: If there’s a hole in the wall that’s large enough for a rat or other rodent to fit through, take steps to repair it. After sealing, they can’t sneak inside and find their way into your living space looking for food. Don’t leave garbage out overnight and take the trashcan to the curb as scheduled.
Keep your windows closed during the night if rodent infestations are a concern in your neighborhood. If you live in an area with rodents, close off any vents that lead into your home as well as other places where they could get inside.
When Should I See My Doctor If Bitten By A Rat During Pregnancy?
The best time to see your doctor after a rat bite during pregnancy is when you have symptoms. If you think the wound itself was from a rat, it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor so they can check it out and clean it if necessary.
You may also need treatment for any possible infections that may require antibiotics. As always, be sure to let your doctor know if you’ve been in an area where rats are prevalent or if rodent bites are in your family history.
Conclusion:
Rats are known to be carriers of many different diseases, including leptospirosis and Hantavirus. If a rat has bitten you during your pregnancy, you must take the proper steps to care for yourself and keep your baby healthy.
We’ve outlined the symptoms associated with being bitten by a rat, what should happen if this happens while pregnant, and when you need to see your doctor post-bite. Please do let us know about your experience with rats in the comments below!
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