Tick bite

Resolved question:
Had a tick bite 3-4 months ago. Did not finish antibiotics. My left arm is aching on and off. And my hand is tingling. I am 58 years old and very active.

Submitted: 4 Days
Category: Infectious Disease Specialist

Expert:  Dr. Jaydeep Tripathy replied 4 Days.

Hello,

Thank you for choosing DoctorSpring.

The aching of the arm and the tingling is more suggestive of a pinched nerve rather than a long lasting effect of a tick infection. Although ticks can have longer incubation period it is unusual to cause such symptom in isolation at a later stage. I would like to know some additional details from you so that I can provide a solid and learned opinion.
You can reply as a followup

1. When was the tick bite ? What kind of tick ?
2. Did you have any symptoms at that time ? (Reason for antibiotic therapy)
3. Locaiton of the bite
4. Duration of the arm symptoms (weeks / months / days)
5. Where exactly is the pain (outer arm/ back of arm / wrists.. etc)
6. Is there any shock like sensation / tingling while moving the arm ?
7. Any sesnory loss ? (loss of touch).

Thank you

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Patient replied :

Tick bite was in November. symptoms started about a week ago.pain in the bicep. Bite was on left side of neck. It blew up like a grapefruit and oozed for a week. Doctor took one look and put me on meds. No loss of feeling


Expert:  Dr. Jaydeep Tripathy replied 3 Days.

Hello,

Thank you for the reply.

You symptoms and the location of the pain are not typical for that of a tick infection ( Lymes radiculoneuritis ). How it is not possible to rule it out completely without further evaluation. As of now I recommend a wait and watch approach. You can take a OTC pain medication like Ibuprofen twice a day. It will take care of any inflammation there is. Rest the arm. While sleeping make sure you are keeping it in a neutral position. You can also take a Vitamin b12 containing multivitamin.

Most likely the pain and tingling should resolve in 3-4 days. If not your require further testing - serologic testing for Lymes disease. Meanwhile if there is any rashes, weakness of face, progressive arm symptoms or as a matter of fact any new symptoms are there you should get medical help.

I will keep this consult open so that you can get back to me at a later stage
Hope this helps
Thank you

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