If you get bit by a dog and sustain only minor skin irritation, then you may not want to pursue legal action against the owner, especially if the dog was up-to-date on its vaccinations. Conversely, if you developed a severe bone infection known as osteomyelitis as a result of the bite, then you may need to consult a lawyer in Rockford. Here are some signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis and which treatment options may be recommended.
Signs and Symptoms
You may not develop symptoms of osteomyelitis for a week or more after your dog bite. After this time period, you may experience bone pain, fever, chills, fatigue, and nausea. You may also develop redness, inflammation, and warmth near the bite. It may be painful to move the affected body part and you may lose range of motion, especially if the bite occurred on your hand, leg, or foot.
As soon as you experience any of these symptoms, see your doctor and keep all of your documentation so that you can present it to your lawyer in Rockford if you decide to pursue legal action against the owner of the dog.
Treatment
Before your doctor recommends a treatment plan, he or she may need to order blood tests and x-rays to determine if you actually have osteomyelitis because other conditions can mimic this infection.
You may also need a bone biopsy to determine which type of bacteria is responsible for the infection. After this is determined, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. You will probably require hospitalization because osteomyelitis treatment usually involves intravenous antibiotic therapy.
