The Basics

Possible early, flu-like symptoms arising from a tick bite include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Joint pains
• Classic Bullseye Rash or EM Rash

Note: These symptoms can begin any time after you are infected by a tick bite, and can progress to even more serious physical, cardiac, neurological, and psychiatric issues, if they are left untreated.

Why Should I Know About These Symptoms?

Even if you do not find a tick in your bodily checks, that does not mean that there are none attached. Adult hard ticks are easier to spot and feel than smaller, nymphal ticks – which are about the size of a poppy seed. So, knowing the early signs and symptoms of a tick bite can be very important to get timely treatment before the infection has a chance to gain a foothold in your system.

For more information on Lyme symptoms, visit our Signs and Symptoms and Diagnosis pages.