Tick bites are a significant threat to the health of humans and the likelihood of being bitten by these critters is particularly high if you live in the Northeastern United States. Read the following information regarding ticks to lessen your likelihood of experiencing a tick bite. As we’ve covered in previous blogs, the dangers of tick bites and their unfortunate misdiagnosis can wreak havoc on your body and your health. If you’ve suffered from Lyme disease and have been misdiagnosed, contact your experienced NYC Disease Malpractice Attorney today to build your personal injury case.
There are hundreds of species of ticks worldwide.
Over 800 species of ticks have been discovered worldwide. Since they are found in grassy areas, beach environs, woods, and national parks, there are plenty of climates they can inhabit.
Ticks are ectoparasites.
This means they feed on blood from the outside of their host. By digging their mouth into their prey, they can get the nutrition they need. Ticks aren’t picky eaters, which means they’re happy to drink human, mammal, reptile, and bird blood.
Ticks spread disease.
According to Mosquito Buzz, since ticks don’t strictly dine on humans, they tend to pick up different viruses and diseases, as they switch from horse to mouse to dog to deer. Ticks have been known to transmit a number of diseases at once. A blacklegged tick, for example, could pass on Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis all in the one bite.
Ticks seek higher ground for easier attachment.
Since these bugs aren’t capable of flying or jumping, they’ll often climb trees or bushes and wait for a victim to brush up next to them. Then, they can attach themselves, find a spot with thin skin, and insert themselves. Common places for tick bites include ears and neck for this reason.
You can prevent infection even after a tick bite.
While many people who are familiar with ticks associate a bite with Lyme disease and other infections, a bite doesn’t mean you’re doomed. In fact, you have approximately 36 hours to remove the tick before it begins to transmit infection. To be safe, closely examine yourself and your dog after being in tick-infested areas. If you do find one, remove it with tweezers-ensuring you grab the entire body out- and take the tick to the doctor to have it tested. Not all ticks carry Lyme disease, so getting it tested can rule out your chances of infection.
It’s important to note that Lyme disease has so many symptoms that it is often misdiagnosed. Often, someone who experiences a tick bite never notices and doesn’t show the hallmark bullseye rash. Without knowing you’ve been bitten by a tick, doctors can often treat patients for the wrong condition, allowing the Lyme disease to progress and worsen. If this has happened to you, you need an attorney on your side who can fight for your rights and recovery.
Contact Your NY Malpractice Attorney
If you or someone you know has received an incorrect diagnosis and your Lyme disease was left unchecked and untreated, an NYC Medical Malpractice lawyer can help. We understand the frustration of a misdiagnosis and the dire consequences of this disease, and we have helped thousands of injury victims receive the help and monetary reward for pain and suffering which they deserve. Contact the law offices of Ronemus & Vilensky today by calling 212-779-7070, or filling out our free, no obligation form today.
