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My_Toes_Are_Cold
June 7th, 2008, 02:48 PM
Lately, I've had really high anxiety about medical issues. One of these is tetanus - I have been worried that because my bathwater is orangish that I'll get tetanus.

I know that it's ridiculous, and I know that the symptoms of tetanus are stiff muscles, joints, neck, back, and jaw. It is also followed by muscle or joint pain, and muscle spasms. A fever, sweating, and difficulty swallowing also occurs.

Well today, my legs, arms, and jaw feel kinda stiff. However, I have no muscle pain or spasms. I don't have a fever (but I'll probably take my temperature later), I don't have any problems with the water I just drank, and I'm not sweating more than I would on a really hot day.

Last night, I didn't sleep well... I pretty much just laid in bed hoping I'd fall asleep, but I didn't. And earlier today (before I felt stiff), I went for a walk which was rather difficult because of the heat, and because I was really tired. And I don't stretch. A few days ago, I did a bit of running because I was going to and from somewhere and I wanted to do it quickly, so my legs were feeling a bit sore from that for a few days. My legs are probably stiff also from my sitting position - at my dad's, where I spent most of my time, I usually lay back when I use my laptop (which I'm not a lot), and at my mom's, I have this chair where I'm effectively sitting more upright with my feet firmly on the floor.

My forearms probably feel stiff from typing on my laptop and pressing my forearm against the laptop. Also, I have a tic where I flex my forearms.

My jaw is probably stiff because I grit my teeth a lot.

I did have a tetanus booster back in 2001.

But even with all this, I'm still getting concerned about it. I have lorazepam to help me with my anxiety, which I will be taking after posting this.

I did call my doctor's office and spoke with a nurse and explained my problems, and she assured me that if I had tetanus, I'd have more symptoms and told me not to worry. I just want more people to assure me that I'm fine, and if anyone knows, tell me really definitive symptoms.

Tyleisme
June 8th, 2008, 11:11 PM
You're finding explanations for everything that you feel, ruling it out. You don't have tetanus. 2001 was 7 years ago, I believe you need a shot every 5 years. Don't quote me on that as my shots are slightly different from everyone elses. But I think that's the normal rate. I highly doubt you have tetanus from drinking "hard" water. It's just the minerals in it. Keep in mind, if you're worrying about something and you know the symptoms of it, its possible to trick yourself into thinking you have those symptoms.

Mzor203
June 8th, 2008, 11:33 PM
No, actually, once you've had your first couple you need a booster every ten years. I had mine back in 2006 and I don't get another until 2016.

But, if after five years, something happens like you stab yourself with a rusty nail, then they will give you a booster shot just in case.

The symptoms you have described are pretty much correct, as far as I know. I don't believe you have it.

byee
June 9th, 2008, 07:33 PM
You're finding explanations for everything that you feel, ruling it out. You don't have tetanus. 2001 was 7 years ago, I believe you need a shot every 5 years. Don't quote me on that as my shots are slightly different from everyone elses. But I think that's the normal rate. I highly doubt you have tetanus from drinking "hard" water. It's just the minerals in it. Keep in mind, if you're worrying about something and you know the symptoms of it, its possible to trick yourself into thinking you have those symptoms.


QFT! I STILL really dig awareness.

Anyway, in order to get tetanus, there needs to be blood, as in a cut or something. Tetanus enters the body via the bloodstream. Drinking H20 won't do it.

Go out and enjoy your life. You're fine.

My_Toes_Are_Cold
June 10th, 2008, 08:25 PM
Thanks guys. My anxiety has been up the wazoo lately.