Lockjaw (7) - Crossword Clue Explained
Understanding Lockjaw: The 7-Letter Answer
Answer: TETANUS
Lockjaw in crossword puzzles refers to TETANUS, a serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle contractions and spasms. This seven-letter medical term frequently appears in health-themed crosswords and general knowledge puzzles, representing one of the most recognizable disease-related crossword answers.
What is Lockjaw in Medical Terms?
Lockjaw, medically known as tetanus, is a potentially fatal infection caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which produces powerful neurotoxins affecting the nervous system. The condition earned its common name because the characteristic jaw muscle rigidity makes it difficult or impossible for patients to open their mouths normally.
Lockjaw in Crossword Puzzles: Solving Strategies
Lockjaw appears regularly in medical-themed crosswords and serves as an excellent example of common name versus scientific terminology cluing. Experienced solvers recognize this clue type immediately, using medical knowledge to bridge colloquial and formal disease names.
Crossword Solving Techniques
- Identify medical terminology patterns
- Consider both common and scientific names
- Use crossing letters for confirmation
- Think about seven-letter disease names
- Remember vaccination-preventable diseases
Lockjaw Crossword Clue - FAQs
Q: How quickly can lockjaw symptoms develop after injury?
A: Lockjaw symptoms typically appear 3-21 days after exposure, with shorter incubation periods generally indicating more severe disease progression.
Q: Can lockjaw be completely prevented?
A: Yes, lockjaw is almost entirely preventable through proper vaccination and timely booster shots, making it extremely rare in countries with comprehensive immunization programs.
Q: What types of wounds are most dangerous for lockjaw?
A: Deep puncture wounds, especially those contaminated with soil, rust, or animal feces, pose the highest tetanus risk due to oxygen-free environments where bacteria thrive.
Q: Is lockjaw contagious between people?
A: No, lockjaw is not contagious from person to person. The infection occurs only through direct bacterial contamination of wounds or cuts.
