Complications of tetanus infection may include:
•Breathing problems: Life-threatening breathing problems can occur from tightening of the vocal cords and muscle rigidity in the neck and abdomen, especially during a generalized spasm.
•Blockage of a lung artery (pulmonary embolism): A blood clot that has traveled from elsewhere in your body can block the main artery of the lung or one of its branches.
•Pneumonia: A lung infection caused by accidentally inhaling something into the lungs (aspiration pneumonia) may be a complication of generalized spasms.
•Broken bones: Generalized spasms may cause fractures of the spine or other bones.
•Death: Death from tetanus is often caused by a blocked airway during spasms or damage to the nerves that regulate breathing, heart rate or other organ functions.
Courtesy: Mayo Clinic