Tick fever (such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever)

Overview

Many people don't remember a tick bite.

The rash of spotted fever often starts on wrists and ankles.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Fever and headache after a tick bite
• Fever with a rash after a tick bite

Less common

• Rash
• Body aches
• Nausea

Look up a symptom: Fever · Headache

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria from ticks.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It usually doesn't spread from person to person.
• People get it from: tick bites.

Who is more likely to get it

• Outdoor activity
• Southern and eastern U.S.

Possible complications

• Tick bite

Diagnosis

Diagnosis starts on symptoms; treatment shouldn't wait for tests.

Questions you may be asked

• Outdoor activity, ticks

The exam

Skin check.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Blood tests:

Treatment

Start treatment fast.

Self-care

• Take doxycycline exactly as prescribed
• Check for ticks daily in season

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent:

• Repellent
• Tick checks

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an infectious disease specialist, for hard-to-treat infections.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover with early treatment.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing my symptoms?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Tick fever (such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever)