Rocky mountain spotted fever: symptoms, medications, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is rocky mountain spotted fever?

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is an acute disease caused by the Rickettsia rickettsii insect. These insects generally live in forested areas or bushes, especially in low grass areas and tall grass. This disease occurs most often in warm weather such as spring and summer.

How common is rocky mountain spotted fever?

This disease can affect any age group, but mostly occurs in adults aged 60-69 years, as well as children aged 5-9 years. Men are more susceptible to this disease than women. This disease can be overcome by reducing your risk factors. Please discuss with your doctor for more information.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of rocky mountain spotted fever?

The symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever usually begin within 2-5 days of being bitten. Symptoms include: high fever accompanied by chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath accompanied by coughing.

The skin rash occurs on the wrists, ankles, and spreads to the soles, heels and finally to the feet and body. Then the body becomes weak, there is pain and confusion.

There may be some signs or symptoms not listed above. If you have any concerns regarding the above symptoms, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should call your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms.

• Chest pain or shortness of breath

• Unable to drink water and dehydrated

• The rash looks like an infection

• Headache or severe epilepsy

• Severe stomach pain or bleeding

You need to see a doctor immediately if you develop a skin rash or fever after being bitten by a tick. Rocky Mountain spotted fever as well as fevers caused by other viruses spread very quickly and are very dangerous.

Cause

What causes rocky mountain spotted fever?

The cause of Rocky Mountain spotted fever comes from the bite of an infected tick. Fleas carry the Rickettsia rickettsii bacteria that usually originates from the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) in the western United States, where the disease is most common. In Western America, the forest tick (Dermacentor andersoni) carries bacteria and parasites in dogs and rodents. Thus, this disease often occurs in cities and rural mountains. Rocky Mountain spotted fever does not spread between individuals.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for rocky mountain spotted fever?

There are many risk factors for Rocky Mountain spotted fever, such as:

• In the spring or early summer

• Live in rocky mountainous or forested, tall grassy areas where squirrels or ferrets live.

• Often travels and lives in forests or gardens and often comes in contact with furry dogs or squirrels.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for rocky mountain spotted fever?

For dangerous cases, you need to be admitted to the hospital as soon as possible. Your doctor will use an antibiotic such as doxycycline or tetracycline if you are a male or not pregnant. You should avoid taking aspirin because it can have side effects and antacids for stomach inflammation and painkillers will reduce the effect of the antibiotics.

What are the usual tests for rocky mountain spotted fever?

Your doctor will diagnose Rocky Mountain spotted fever based on your medical history, physical examination, and body symptoms and will ask you to do a blood test to make sure the disease isn't contagious.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can help treat rocky mountain spotted fever?

Here are some lifestyle and home remedies that can help you deal with Rocky Mountain spotted fever:

• Take care and eat regularly, as well as rest. You can eat normal food, but it is better to eat easy to digest food and biscuits.
• Drink lots of water, but don't drink milk.
• Rest until the fever subsides.
• If you have muscle soreness, you can use a hot analgesic patch.
• Check your body frequently for tick bites when you are outdoors.
• Use a product that does not contain aspirin, such as acetaminophen to reduce fever and pain.
• Do not drink milk or use antacids for stomach upset and inflammation for 2 hours after using antibiotics.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.