What are the Symptoms of the Black Death?
September 27, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
The Black Death, a devastating pandemic of bubonic plague that swept through Europe in the 14th century, had several characteristic symptoms. It’s important to note that historical accounts and medical understanding were limited during that time, so descriptions may not align precisely with modern medical terminology. The symptoms of the Black Death included:
- Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes (Buboes):
- The most prominent and recognizable symptom was the sudden appearance of swollen and painful lymph nodes, typically in the groin, armpit, or neck.
- Fever:
- High fever, chills, and general feeling of being unwell.
- Fatigue and Weakness:
- Profound weakness and fatigue, making it difficult for individuals to perform even basic tasks.
- Headache and Muscle Aches:
- Severe headaches and muscle aches were commonly reported.
- Reddish or Blackish Skin Lesions:
- Skin lesions, often red at first, later turning dark purplish or blackish in color due to internal bleeding. These lesions often spread and could be accompanied by painful ulcers.
- Respiratory Symptoms:
- Respiratory symptoms, including shortness of breath, coughing, and the production of blood-tinged sputum, in some cases.
- Gastrointestinal Symptoms:
- Abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea.
- Delirium and Confusion:
- Confusion, delirium, and altered mental state were often observed in later stages of the illness.
- Rapid Onset and Progression:
- The disease often progressed rapidly, with individuals deteriorating within a few days of the appearance of symptoms.
It’s important to note that historical accounts varied, and the severity and manifestation of symptoms could differ from person to person. The term “Black Death” was derived from the darkening of the skin due to internal bleeding, particularly seen in the later stages of the disease.
The bubonic plague was primarily transmitted through fleas that infested black rats and subsequently spread to humans. While modern medicine can now treat and control the bubonic plague with antibiotics, during the 14th century, there were no effective treatments, leading to devastating mortality rates across Europe and other parts of the world.