How Do I Know If I Have Anthrax?

Do you think you have been exposed to anthrax (you work or often travel to areas with a high risk of anthrax exposure, work with anthrax in the laboratory; you are a veterinarian, postman, police officer or a medical professional)?

Did you have any symptoms within a week of possible anthrax exposure?

Do you have a raised, itchy bump resembling an insect bite that quickly develops into a painless sore with a black center (most often the sore will be on the face, neck, arms, or hand)?

Do you have swelling around the sore or swollen nearby lymph nodes?

Do you have flu-like symptoms including sore throat, fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and headache?

Do you have loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting or abdominal pain?

Do you have sore throat and difficulty swallowing?

Do you have chest discomfort or shortness of breath?

Do you cough up blood?

Do you have bloody diarrhea?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have anthrax. Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. The bacterium can be found in the soil, and it often affects domestic and wild animals. Anthrax is rare in the U.S., but people can still become infected by contact with infected animals or by consuming contaminated water or food. Anthrax is not a contagious disease, which means you cannot get it from another person. Anthrax-causing bacteria often enter the body through cuts or other open wounds on the skin. Anthrax spores are microscopic, so you cannot notice them by sight, taste or smell.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have anthrax. Anthrax is severe bacterial infection that can cause skin, lung and bowel disease. Cutaneous anthrax is the most common form of anthrax and also the least dangerous, while inhalation anthrax is a severe form of the disease that can be difficult to treat. If you suspect that you have been exposed to anthrax, you must contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will do various tests to rule out more common illnesses such as the flu and pneumonia. A diagnosis of anthrax can be confirmed by skin, blood and stool tests, imaging tests and a spinal tap.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have anthrax. Anthrax is a serious disease that can be fatal if not treated in time. After entering the body, anthrax spores multiply and create toxins that can cause severe damage. One of the possible ways to treat anthrax is to use antithioxins. Nowadays, there are several types of antitoxins that can be used against anthrax. Also, anthrax treatment includes antibiotics or a combination of antibiotics. The length and type of treatment will depend on how you are infected with anthrax and your overall health. Treatment is most effective if started as early as possible.