Spotting Signs of Rocky Mountain Fever

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (RMSF) is a serious condition transmitted by the common dog tick (or wood tick) in many parts of the country. Deceptively named for the Rocky Mountains, this illness can actually be caught anywhere east of this mountain range in areas these ticks call home as well as Western California. If not treated, this illness can have severe and even have deadly consequences, but fortunately, there is both primary and supportive care available to help.

Symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Caused by a tick bite, you may not realize you have RMSF until 2 to 12 days later when symptoms begin to appear. Always properly clean a tick bite and monitor for symptoms. Illness such as RMSF will typically present with flu-like symptoms: muscle aches, headaches, chills, fever, and poor appetite. You may also notice abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Unlike typical viral cases of flu, this fever will likely be high and may last for 2 to 3 weeks. The most noticeable sign of this illness is an easily recognizable spotted rash, but this isn't present in about 10-15% of patients.

Acute Illness Treatment

Extended high fevers should always be reason enough to seek a medical professional. RMSF fevers are typically treated with an oral antibiotic called doxycycline. In addition, you should follow standard flu-care protocols like staying hydrated and resting. High fevers and dehydration can pose severe health risks including muscle loss, organ failure, and in the most severe cases of death. Get treatment as soon as possible for the best outcome.

Supportive Mind and Body Care

Oral antibiotics can be lifesaving measures to treat your infection, but they often leave you with unwanted side effects, as does the ravages of a severe illness. Get your body back in shape with a functional medicine specialist like a chiropractor in Manhattan KS. Chiropractic care works to alleviate headaches and reduce ongoing inflammation. As well as, treating muscle aches and residual abdominal issues.