Period of decline

Definition

The period of decline is the phase in an infectious disease where symptoms begin to subside and the pathogen population declines. During this time, the patient's immune system starts to overcome the infection.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The period of decline follows the period of illness in the progression of an infectious disease.
2. During this phase, symptoms reduce but there is still a risk of secondary infections.
3. Antibiotic treatment is often continued through this phase to ensure complete eradication of the pathogen.
4. Patient monitoring remains crucial as a rapid decrease in pathogen load can sometimes lead to toxic shock due to endotoxin release.
5. This phase may last from days to weeks depending on the type and severity of the infection.

Review Questions

Related terms

Incubation Period:

The time between exposure to a pathogen and onset of symptoms.

Period of Illness: The stage where disease symptoms are most severe and obvious.

Convalescence Period: The recovery phase where symptoms have mostly disappeared and body returns to normal function.