Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Care Instructions

Overview

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is an infection you can get from certain kinds of ticks. This infection can lead to life-threatening problems, such as severe trouble breathing and kidney failure, if it is not treated quickly. It can be treated with antibiotics.

The first symptoms usually start about 2 to 14 days after the tick bite. They include a sudden fever, a headache, muscle aches, and nausea and vomiting. A rash may start 2 to 4 days after the fever. It looks like small, flat, pink spots. The rash often starts on the wrists, forearms, and ankles. It may then spread to the trunk, the palms of the hands, and the soles of the feet.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and contact your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Rest when you feel tired.
• If your doctor prescribed antibiotics, take them as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
• Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.

Preventing more tick bites

• Cover as much of your body as you can when you work or play in grassy or wooded areas. Wear a hat, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants with the legs tucked into your socks. Keep in mind that it is easier to spot ticks on light-colored clothes.
• Use insect repellents, such as products containing DEET. You can spray them on your skin.
• Use products that contain 0.5% permethrin on your clothing and outdoor gear, such as your tent. You can also buy clothing already treated with permethrin.
• When you come in from outdoors, check your body for ticks, including your groin, head, and underarms.

When should you call for help?

Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

• You are confused or can't think clearly.
• You have a headache or stiff neck.
• You have a new or worse rash.
• You have symptoms of infection, such as:
  • Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
  • Red streaks leading from the area.
  • Pus draining from the area.
  • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

• You do not get better as expected.