Diphtheria toxin symptoms: what to know

Early illness may include a sore throat, fever, tiredness and swollen glands. A thick grey or white coating can develop over the throat or tonsils and may bleed if disturbed. Neck swelling can become prominent. As toxin enters the bloodstream, some people develop unusual weakness, difficulty swallowing, voice changes, or problems affecting the heart and nerves. These symptoms are not specific enough to confirm diphtheria, but the pattern and a possible exposure should be treated seriously.

Contact a medical service promptly and mention vaccination status, recent travel, close contact with an affected person and the time symptoms began. Phone before attending if possible so infection-control arrangements can be made. Avoid close contact and sharing utensils until a clinician gives advice. Do not scrape a throat coating or rely on leftover antibiotics. A healthcare team may arrange testing and start treatment while results are pending.

Breathing difficulty, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly worsening neck swelling, fainting, chest discomfort, severe weakness, confusion or blue lips require emergency help. Diphtheria can worsen even when the initial throat discomfort seems modest. Prompt care also helps protect household members and other close contacts.

Ask which symptoms suggest toxin effects, what tests are needed, whether antibiotics or antitoxin should begin, and how long contact precautions should continue.