Complications

Complications from diphtheria may include:

• Blocking of the airway
• Damage to the heart muscle (myocarditis)
• Nerve damage (polyneuropathy)
• Loss of the ability to move (paralysis)
• Lung infection (respiratory failure or pneumonia)

For some people, diphtheria can lead to death. Even with treatment, about 1 out of 10 diphtheria patients die. Without treatment, as many as 1 out of 2 patients can die from the disease.