What is the common complication in the acute phase of rabies?

Hydrophobia, or the fear of water, is a common complication during the acute phase of rabies due to the involvement of the central nervous system. As the rabies virus progresses, it causes inflammation in the brain, which can lead to significant neurological symptoms. One of these symptoms is difficulty swallowing and severe spasms of the throat muscles. This can make it painful and distressing for the infected individual to drink or even see water, thus leading to the sensation of hydrophobia.

This phenomenon is particularly notable because it can occur even in the absence of conscious fear, showcasing the profound effects of the rabies virus on neural pathways that control autonomic responses. It's an essential symptom in diagnosing rabies in clinically ill patients, reflecting the severe nature of the disease as it progresses towards its critical phases.