Symptoms

Since only a small number of deer tick bites actually lead to Lyme disease, you don't need to see a doctor unless you develop symptoms. If you do, contact your doctor right away. He or she can determine whether these symptoms might be caused by a tick-borne disease and whether antibiotics will be needed. Even if your initial symptoms disappear on their own, you should still consult a doctor since Lyme disease may recur as a more generalized infection.

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The onset of symptoms can occur within three to 30 days of a tick bite. If the infection goes untreated with antibiotics, symptoms can progress to chronic joint pain, muscle weakness, and neurological problems in a small number of people.

This section contains more information on:
Rash
Arthritis
Neurological symptoms
Heart problems
Other symptoms