What were the symptons of bubonic plague?

Bubonic plague, one of the three main forms of plague caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, is characterized by the following symptoms:

1. Buboes: These are swollen, tender lymph nodes, typically found in the armpits, neck, or groin. They can be as large as a chicken egg and are extremely painful.

2. Fever: High fever, often reaching up to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher, is a hallmark symptom of bubonic plague.

3. Chills: Intense chills and shivering accompany the high fever.

4. Headache: Severe headache is a common symptom of bubonic plague.

5. Muscle Pains: Aching and pain in muscles throughout the body is experienced by individuals infected with bubonic plague.

6. Nausea and Vomiting: Many individuals with bubonic plague experience nausea and vomiting.

7. Prostration: Extreme weakness and fatigue can make it difficult for individuals to perform daily activities.

8. Skin Lesions: In some cases, bubonic plague can cause skin lesions, which can appear as dark spots or bruises on the skin. These lesions can indicate the spread of the infection to the bloodstream, a condition known as septicemic plague.

9. Shock: In severe cases, bubonic plague can lead to septic shock, characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure, organ failure, and potential death.

10. Pneumonia: In rare cases, bubonic plague can progress to pneumonic plague, affecting the lungs. Symptoms of pneumonic plague include severe cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and the production of bloody or frothy sputum.

The incubation period for bubonic plague is typically between 2 and 10 days, but it can be shorter in severe cases. The prompt recognition and treatment of symptoms are crucial for effective management of bubonic plague.