What tests can confirm rabies after a bat bite?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am very scared. I was bitten by a bat six months back but could not get the rabies vaccine. Since I was previously vaccinated, I received two booster shots. However, about six days before the shots, I started experiencing throat tightness and difficulty swallowing. Two months later, I developed double vision, which has been worsening, along with random body twitching. My swallowing has slightly improved but remains inconsistent. I am extremely concerned about these symptoms. What could be causing them?

Kindly suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

To better understand your condition, I need some additional details. So, I have added my questions below,

When were you previously vaccinated for rabies?
Where exactly was the bite on your body?
Have you experienced any fear of drinking liquids?
Did you have any anaphylactic reactions after receiving the recent rabies boosters or in response to past vaccinations?
Are you experiencing any retroorbital pain (pain behind the eyes)?
Additionally, have you noticed excessive salivation or tearing from your mouth or eyes involuntarily?

Your answers will help assess your symptoms more accurately.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Double vision can result from ocular muscle weakness due to nerve or muscle dysfunction, misalignment of the eyes, or refractive errors. Rabies vaccination protects for up to two years. Anaphylactic reactions can cause chest tightness and difficulty swallowing, but other conditions like acid reflux, diffuse esophageal spasms, or anxiety neurosis may also contribute to these symptoms.

To determine the cause of your symptoms, tests such as saliva, blood, or cerebrospinal fluid PCR (polymerase chain reaction) for the rabies virus are necessary. Additionally, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the brain and an ophthalmologic evaluation can help identify possible muscle weakness. It is crucial to rule out rabies first before considering other diagnoses. Checking serum potassium, vitamin D, and hemoglobin levels is also recommended. Consulting a neurologist for further evaluation and reviewing test results is advisable.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if you have any other concerns.

Thank you.

Answer 3

Hello,

Welcome back toicliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, you can show it to the neurologist and you can ask him about my suggestions.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.