Ticks, small parasites that often go unnoticed, can cause serious consequences for human health. In recent years, public health specialists have warned of an increase in cases of tick-borne diseases, especially in rural or forested areas where ticks proliferate.

Diseases such as Lyme disease, alpha-gal syndrome and tick paralysis are not only becoming more common, but also more complex to diagnose and treat. Understanding your risks is critical to preventing complications.

Why are ticks so dangerous?

Ticks feed on the blood of animals and humans. During this action, they can transmit bacteria, viruses, and toxins that trigger potentially serious illness. Unlike other insects, many times the bite of a tick does not generate immediate pain, which allows it to remain attached for hours or even days without being detected.

Some species of ticks are associated with pathologies ranging from severe allergic reactions to chronic infectious diseases. Among the most worrying are three: Lyme disease, alpha-gal syndrome and tick paralysis.

Lyme disease, alpha-gal syndrome, and tick paralysis

1. Lyme disease

It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted by the bite of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis). It is common in North America, Europe, and some regions of Asia.

Common symptoms:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Pain in muscles and joints
• Rash in the shape of a “bull’s-eye” or ring

Risks: If not treated in time, it can affect the nervous system, heart and joints, causing chronic sequelae such as persistent arthritis, facial paralysis or neurological disorders.

2. Alpha-gal syndrome

It is an allergic reaction to alpha-gal sugar, present in red meat (such as beef, pork or lamb). This syndrome develops after the bite of certain ticks, such as the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum).

Common symptoms:

• Urticaria
• Swelling
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain or vomiting after eating red meat (symptoms may appear several hours later)

Risks: It can lead to anaphylaxis, a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction.

3. Tick paralysis

Caused by a neurotoxin that some ticks release by attaching to the skin and feeding for a long time. This toxin affects the nervous system.

Common symptoms:

• Progressive weakness in the arms and legs
• Difficulty walking or talking
• Facial paralysis
• In severe cases, respiratory paralysis

Risks: If the tick is not detected and removed in time, it can lead to total paralysis and even death from respiratory failure.

Tips to prevent these risks

• Avoid tick-infested areas (tall grasslands, dense forests) or wear appropriate clothing: long pants, long sleeves, and boots.
• Apply insect repellent with DEET or permethrin to exposed clothing and skin.
• Check the body and clothing when returning from the outside, paying special attention to the scalp, armpits, groin, waist and behind the knees.
• Showering within two hours of being outdoors can help detect and remove ticks before they attach.
• Remove ticks with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping them as close to the skin as possible and pulling firmly upwards. Do not apply oils, fire or alcohol, as this can worsen the situation.
• Consult a doctor if you have any strange symptoms, rash or discomfort after a bite.

These tick-borne diseases should be taken seriously. Early detection and prevention are the best weapons to avoid complications. Being informed can make the difference between a small scare and a serious health threat.