As beautiful spring weather draws Houstonians outside, Houston Methodist’s Dr. Ranjitha Rishikesh, an internal medicine and primary care physician, urges the community to be aware of tick-borne illnesses across Southeast Texas.

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ticks thrive in warm, humid environments, making them more active during spring and summer months. Ticks are often found in grassy areas, parks, trails and landscaped spaces, and exposure to ticks can happen during everyday activities such as jogging, yard work or spending time at parks and patios.

 

“Tick season is here, and every year we see more tick-related illnesses across Texas,” Rishikesh said. “If you’re spending time outdoors, simple steps can make a big difference — wear long sleeves, choose light-colored clothing, tuck your pants into your socks and use DEET tick repellent. When you come back inside, check your skin and shower as soon as you can. Don’t forget to check pets and outdoor gear, too.”

 

Ticks in the Houston area are known to carry illnesses such as:
▪ Ehrlichiosis: A bacterial infection transmitted by the lone star tick, which causes fever, headache, chills and muscle aches. If untreated, the infection can lead to respiratory failure and seizures.
▪ Rocky Mountain spotted fever: Transmitted by the American dog tick, this bacterial infection produces a rash that appears on wrists and ankles and flu-like symptoms. If untreated, this infection can lead to organ failure and even death,
▪ Alpha-gal syndrome: Lone star tick bites can cause a life-threatening allergic reaction to a sugar molecule found in most mammals. A few hours after eating red meat or dairy, reactions include hives, itching, digestive distress and severe anaphylaxis.

 

Because symptoms of tick-borne illness can vary and often resemble common viral illnesses, tick-related conditions can go unrecognized – especially if a person does not recall being bitten, Rishikesh said.

 

Not everyone who is bitten by a tick becomes ill. Ticks often must be attached for 24 hours to transmit infection. Still, Rishikesh encourages everyone to pay attention to how they feel after spending time outdoors.

 

Anyone who experiences illness following a tick bite or unexplained symptoms after outdoor exposure should contact a health care provider. Houston Methodist offers same-day care; book an appointment now at houstonmethodist.org.