TICK BITES

We often have patients visit us because they have been bitten by a tick. Many of these patients have either isolated the tick themselves or come in with the tick still attached to their skin. It is very important to have the tick completely removed by a medical surgeon and to examine you for possible symptoms. What could a patient suffer from after a tick bite?
 

1. Lyme Disease 

Infection with the bacterium Borrelia, better known as Lyme disease, is the most common form of tick-borne disease. Lyme disease initially manifests with flu-like symptoms. In the course, it affects the body more completely and can manifest with symptoms in the musculoskeletal system, joints, neurologically or even cardiologically. A characteristic sign is a red irritated spot, with a lighter center. This sign is called erythema migrans and can grow. How is it treated Lyme disease is usually effectively treated with antibiotics. Treatment is effective if given at the onset of the disease. The presentation of the disease varies and can include flu-like symptoms in the early stages and then manifests with musculoskeletal, arthritic, neurological, psychiatric and cardiac symptoms. In the majority of cases, the disease is treated with antibiotics, especially if treatment is started in the early stages of the disease. Delayed treatment often leads to "advanced" borreliosis which is difficult to treat. 

 2. Colorado tick fever 

Colorado tick fever is a viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected tick, Dermacentor andersoni. This species of tick is often referred to as the Rocky Mountain wood tick. Ticks are small brown parasites found primarily in wooded areas and plains. They require blood from humans or animals to survive. Unfortunately, they often carry certain diseases that they transmit to humans when they bite them. Colorado tick fever is one of many diseases that ticks carry. Colorado tick fever is limited to Canada and the Western United States. The disease is prevalent in the state of Colorado. The prevalence of Colorado tick-borne fever is highest between February and October, with 90% of cases reported between April and July. You are at increased risk of infection if you spend time in areas where ticks are prevalent. 

How is Colorado tick-borne fever treated? 

There is no specific treatment for Colorado tick-borne fever. Once symptoms appear, they typically resolve on their own within 10 days. Fever and muscle aches can be treated with acetaminophen and other painkillers. The best solution is to see your doctor immediately.