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Warning-sign checks

Lyme disease: 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

    Call emergency services for fainting, severe breathing difficulty, persistent chest pain, confusion, a seizure, or signs of a severe allergic reaction.

    Sudden facial drooping with arm weakness or speech difficulty also needs emergency assessment because it may be a stroke rather than Lyme disease.

    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 has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a healthcare service promptly after a tick bite if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or are unsure whether part of the tick remains in the skin.

    A small retained mouthpart is not usually dangerous, but the area should be monitored for infection.

    Seek urgent medical care for new palpitations, significant dizziness, worsening shortness of breath, a severe headache with neck stiffness, or rapidly developing weakness.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop an expanding rash after possible tick exposure, even if you feel well.

    Also seek assessment for unexplained fever, new facial weakness, marked joint swelling, nerve pain, or numbness after spending time in a tick area.

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