Editing Tetanus (section)

=== Generalized tetanus ===
Generalized tetanus is the most common type of tetanus, representing about 80% of cases. The generalized form usually presents with a descending pattern. The first sign is trismus or lockjaw, then facial spasms (called ''[[risus sardonicus]]),'' followed by stiffness of the neck, difficulty in swallowing, and rigidity of pectoral and [[Calf (anatomy)|calf]] muscles. Other symptoms include elevated temperature, sweating, elevated [[blood pressure]], and episodic rapid heart rate. [[Spasm]]s may occur frequently and last for several minutes, with the body shaped into a characteristic form called [[opisthotonos]]. Spasms continue for up to four weeks, and complete recovery may take months.<ref name=CDC2012Pink/>