Tick bites can transmit several infections to humans, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Alpha-gal syndrome. They can also cause localized irritation, redness, and itching at the site of the bite.

 

Alpha-gal syndrome (see Allergies) is a delayed allergic reaction to red meat caused by a sugar molecule called alpha-gal. It is typically triggered by tick bites and can lead to symptoms several hours after eating mammalian meat.

 

Ticks can also carry bacteria that cause tick-borne relapsing fever, a condition marked by recurring cycles of fever, headache, and muscle aches. Rarely, some bites may result in tick paralysis, which can cause temporary muscle weakness or difficulty breathing. Medical care should be sought promptly if symptoms develop after a tick bite.

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About Lyme Disease

 

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. It is the most common vector-borne illness in the United States, with an estimated 300,000 cases each year. The infection can affect multiple systems, including the skin, joints, nervous system, and heart.

 

Early symptoms may include fever, chills, fatigue, and joint or muscle pain. A characteristic circular rash, known as erythema migrans, may appear at the site of the bite. If untreated, the infection can spread to other areas, leading to more serious issues such as nerve pain, facial paralysis, meningitis, or heart irregularities.

 

Diagnosis is typically based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, and laboratory testing. While antibiotics can be effective in early treatment, some patients may experience lingering symptoms such as fatigue, pain, or cognitive issues. This condition is known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), and ongoing research is focused on understanding its causes and improving long-term recovery strategies.

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Other Tick-Borne Infections

 

Ticks can transmit a range of bacteria, viruses, and parasites. In addition to Lyme disease, common tick-borne illnesses in the United States include:

 

• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever (Rickettsia rickettsii) – causes fever, rash, and muscle pain, and can become serious if untreated.

• Babesiosis – a parasitic infection that affects red blood cells, often causing fatigue and anemia.

• Ehrlichiosis and Anaplasmosis – bacterial infections that can cause fever, headache, and muscle aches.

• Tularemia and Bartonella infections – less common but can lead to chronic inflammation and fatigue.

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How Acupuncture Helps with Lyme and Tick-Borne Illnesses

 

Acupuncture supports the body’s natural ability to regulate inflammation, improve circulation, and promote immune recovery. This can be especially valuable for patients dealing with chronic or lingering symptoms of tick-borne infections.

 

Benefits of acupuncture for Lyme and TBI may include:

 

1. Reducing inflammation and pain: Acupuncture encourages the release of endorphins and modulates inflammatory signals in the body.

2. Improving immune function: By regulating nervous system activity, acupuncture helps strengthen immune coordination and reduce overactive immune responses.

3. Supporting energy and recovery: Many people with Lyme experience fatigue, weakness, or brain fog. Acupuncture improves microcirculation and oxygen delivery to tissues, helping restore vitality.

4. Easing neurological symptoms: Regular treatments may reduce numbness, tingling, headaches, and nerve pain by calming irritated nerve pathways.

5. Reducing stress and improving sleep: Chronic infection often taxes the adrenal and nervous systems. Acupuncture helps the body relax and rebalance these systems for better rest and healing.

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Integrative Approach at True Acupuncture & Wellness

 

Treatment for Lyme and tick-borne illnesses is highly individualized. Along with acupuncture, we may include herbal medicine, SAAT for sensitivities like Alpha-gal, and targeted detox or immune support protocols using CellCore or classical TCM formulas.

 

This integrative care model focuses on reducing inflammation, supporting immune balance, and improving resilience while working in coordination with your primary care or specialist’s recommendations.