What will happen if a tick is not removed from the head? - briefly
A tick that remains attached to the scalp may transmit pathogens (e.g., Borrelia burgdorferi) and cause local infection, leading to rash, fever, and potential neurological complications. Prompt removal prevents these health risks.
What will happen if a tick is not removed from the head? - in detail
Leaving a tick attached to the scalp can lead to several medical complications. The most immediate risk is the transmission of pathogens. Ticks are vectors for bacteria such as Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (anaplasmosis), and Rickettsia species (spotted fever). Pathogen transfer typically requires the tick to be attached for 24–48 hours; the longer the attachment, the greater the chance of infection. Early symptoms may include fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic erythema migrans rash in the case of Lyme disease.
A second danger is tick‑induced paralysis. Certain tick species secrete neurotoxins that interfere with neuromuscular transmission. Paralysis usually begins with weakness in the facial muscles and progresses to the limbs and respiratory muscles if the tick remains attached for several days. Prompt removal usually reverses the condition, but delayed extraction can result in severe respiratory compromise requiring mechanical ventilation.
Local tissue damage also occurs. The tick’s mouthparts embed deeply into the skin, causing inflammation, erythema, and possible secondary bacterial infection. Persistent inflammation may lead to crusted lesions or scarring, especially on the hair‑bearing scalp where hygiene is more difficult.
Potential allergic reactions must be considered. Some individuals develop a localized hypersensitivity response, while others experience systemic reactions such as urticaria, angioedema, or anaphylaxis. These reactions can develop shortly after the bite or after the tick is removed, complicating diagnosis.
Key complications of an unremoved scalp tick:
- Transmission of Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, spotted fever, or other tick‑borne infections
- Tick‑borne paralysis with progressive muscular weakness, possible respiratory failure
- Localized inflammation, secondary bacterial infection, possible scarring
- Allergic or anaphylactic reactions
Medical management depends on the complication. Early antibiotic therapy (e.g., doxycycline) is effective for most bacterial infections if initiated promptly. Tick paralysis resolves after removal; supportive care, including respiratory support, may be necessary for advanced cases. Antihistamines or epinephrine address allergic responses. Regular inspection of the scalp after outdoor exposure and immediate removal of attached ticks are essential preventive measures.