Tetanus, also called “lock jaw,” is an infection that develops through contact with an abraded surface like a nail or knife and irritates the central nervous system. The infection can cause involuntary contractions and muscle spasms, especially in areas such as the jaw, face, and external muscles. The muscles of the jaw are often in a state of contraction that makes it hard to ingest food.
Here are some diet tips for tetanus patients:
- Liquid foods: Since the condition of the jaw does not allow ingestion of whole foods, it is essential to ensure that the diet plan has food in liquid form.
- Stimulants: A healthy diet to aid in the treatment of tetanus may include certain varieties of alcohol administered at hourly or two-hour intervals. Stimulants such as whisky, wine, and brandy can be given to reduce convulsions and other involuntary muscle contractions. If this diet plan for tetanus does not work, the patient can be put under primary anesthesia and fed through a tube passed through the stomach. Foods such as pre-digested soup, stimulants, as well as pre-digested milk, may be part of the diet.
- High protein diet: Studies prove that the tetanus bacteria’s effectiveness is highly reduced if a high protein diet for tetanus is administered.
- Tailored diet: If the patient suffers from extreme convulsions, it may be essential to increase the administration of stimulants to reduce the muscle contractions. This can range anywhere between two to four ounces. If the patient has relatively few spasms and involuntary muscle contractions, the diet for tetanus should include plenty of proteins like red meat and eggs.
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