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Warning-sign checks

Colorado tick fever: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care for:

    • A seizure
    • Confusion, fainting, or difficulty waking
    • A severe headache with a stiff neck
    • Trouble breathing
    • Chest pain or a sustained irregular heartbeat
    • Heavy bleeding or bleeding that will not stop
    • Signs of severe dehydration, such as collapse or extreme weakness

    A mild, improving fever without these features usually does not require emergency care.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if you develop fever, headache, or strong muscle aches after a possible tick bite or recent outdoor exposure in an affected region.

    Mention where and when you travelled.

    Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you:

    • Cannot keep fluids down
    • Are urinating much less than usual
    • Develop unusual bruising, nosebleeds, or bleeding gums
    • Have symptoms that are worsening instead of improving
    • Improve and then develop a new or more severe illness

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    It may still need routine assessment, especially when there has been likely tick exposure.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Colorado tick fever. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.