Home  /  Other Pests  /  Ticks  /  Tick Bites 

Tick Bites

Approximately 850 species of ticks have been documented throughout the world. These arachnids consume blood for nutrients and are capable of introducing a bevy of disease pathogens while feeding. While some tick bites are innocuous, they are associated with three diseases: Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis and Lyme disease. Tick bites are also responsible for the spread of diseases such as tularemia, babesiosis and relapsing fever.

The American dog tick transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever, also known as black measles, most commonly. Victims will see dark spots on the skin within three to twelve days after exposure. Victims also experience common tick bite symptoms such as fever, headache and body aches. It is important to seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear.

Ehrlichiosis is caused by the transmission of the bacteria Ehrlichia by tick bite. Ehrlichia is known to attack healthy blood cells. This disease causes fatigue, high fever and other common tick bite symptoms. Signs of ehrlichiosis typically appear within 10 days.

The deer tick as well as the lone star tick carry Lyme disease. Diagnosing this ailment is especially difficult, as symptoms are extremely similar to those of the flu. Victims of Lyme disease will experience fatigue, headaches, neck aches, fevers and swollen glands. These symptoms can appear as quickly as two days following a bite, but may not become obvious for one month. Rashes appear and may lead to necrotic wounds. If Lyme disease is left untreated, the nervous system may be compromised.

Tick Bite Symptoms