Signs and Symptoms of Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Many people get Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It is caused by the bite of an infected tick. Rocky Mountain spotted fever is an illness, and it is caused by a microorganism. The illness is called Rocky Mountain spotted fever because that is the region it was first found in. It can be fatal if not treated right away. Check your dog for ticks because they are usually the carriers, and so are woodland areas where you can get ticks on your body. Here are the signs and symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever:

Fever

One of the first symptoms that you may notice if you have Rocky Mountain spotted fever is a fever. It is a high fever. The fever comes on really fast after having been infected by the tick. The fever usually ranges from 102 F to 104 F. It can be really scary. Make sure you get the proper medical treatment if you have Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Chills

Another sign and symptom of Rocky Mountain spotted fever is the chills. The chills usually make your body so cold that you actually shake. So although you may have a high fever you are still feeling very cold. It feels like no matter how many layers of clothing you put on, you still cannot get warm. It is not a pleasant feeling at all.

Rash

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is exactly what it sounds like. You have a fever, and your skin has spots on it. The rash does not appear right away after you have been infected by the tick. It usually takes a couple days for the rash to appear. Once it does, the rash starts usually on your wrists and ankles. Then it spreads to other areas of your body.

Nausea and Vomiting

Your stomach will feel very unsettled when you have Rocky Mountain spotted fever. One of the symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever is to feel nausea. Your stomach may be so unsettled that you may actually vomit. You may vomit many times. Make sure to drink plenty of water so that your body does not become dehydrated.

Other Symptoms You may find that you are very sensitive to light when you have Rocky Mountain spotted fever. A severe headache is very common when having this illness. You may also have a dry cough. Your body will feel very tired, and you may have some delirium. You may want to stick close to the bathroom because of abdominal pain and diarrhea. Just take it easy because your muscles will probably ache and you will just not feel quite right. These are the signs and symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and if you have any of them please contact your doctor right away so that you can get the proper treatment.

Source:

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rocky-mountain-spotted-fever/DS00600