Effects of Ticks on Humans

Ticks are known to carry a wide variety of diseases to humans as they feed solely on blood. Ticks are part of the arthropod family, and there are more than 800 tick species in the world. Most people don't even know they have been bitten by a tick, until after the bite happens. When a tick bites, there is usually no pain.

Itching, Burning, Redness

• Some people who are bitten by ticks develop symptoms shortly after the bite. These symptoms include redness, itching or burning. Very rarely do they feel pain, but it is possible. Some people develop an allergic reaction to the tick bite and may have a rash, swelling, shortness of breath, numbness or paralysis.

Disease

• Some common diseases that ticks carry include, Lyme disease, tularemia and Colorado tick fever. Most ticks do not carry disease, but of course there's no way to tell by looking at them whether they do or not.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of a tick-related disease may not show up immediately. Often these symptoms develop over days or weeks after the bite. Depending on the disease, the symptoms can vary. Some common symptoms include fever, nausea, weakness, swelling, confusion, joint pain, vomiting and palpitations.

When to Call the Doctor

• Many symptoms of tick bites go away on their own, but sometimes you need to call your doctor. If a person who is bit by a tick becomes confused, weak, lethargic, numb or develops a rash, contact a doctor. Also, if he shows signs of paralysis or headaches he should seek medical attention. If you are pregnant or immunosuppressed, tell your doctor if you have been bitten by a tick.