Tick ParalysisSymptoms, Doctors, Treatments, Advances & More
Learn About Tick Paralysis
Tick paralysis is a loss of muscle function that results from a tick bite.
Tick toxicosis
Hard-bodied and soft-bodied female ticks are believed to make a poison that can cause paralysis in children. This condition is rare. Ticks attach to the skin to feed on blood. The poison enters the bloodstream during this feeding process.
The paralysis is ascending. That means it starts in the lower body and moves up.
Children with tick paralysis develop an unsteady gait followed several days later by weakness in the lower legs. This weakness gradually moves up to involve the upper limbs.
Paralysis may cause breathing difficulties, which may require the use of a breathing machine.
The child may also have mild, flu-like symptoms (muscle aches, tiredness).
Removing the tick removes the source of the poison. Recovery is rapid after the tick is removed.
Rob Webster practices practicing medicine in Carrara, Australia. Mr. Webster is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. He is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Tick Paralysis and Facial Paralysis.
Allergy Partners Of The Upstate – Clemson
Reid Johnstone is an Allergy and Immunologist practicing medicine in Clemson, South Carolina. Dr. Johnstone is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Tick Paralysis, Allergic Rhinitis, Grass Allergy, and Sinusitis. Dr. Johnstone is board certified in American Board Of Allergy & Immunology. Dr. Johnstone is currently accepting new patients.
Allergy Partners Of The Upstate
Rudolph Johnstone is an Allergy and Immunologist practicing medicine in Greenville, South Carolina. Dr. Johnstone is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Tick Paralysis, Allergic Rhinitis, Sinusitis, and Grass Allergy. Dr. Johnstone is board certified in American Board Of Allergy & Immunology. Dr. Johnstone is currently accepting new patients.
Full recovery is expected following the removal of the tick.
Breathing difficulties can cause respiratory failure. When this happens, the body's organs do not have enough oxygen to work well.
If your child suddenly becomes unsteady or weak, have the child examined right away. Breathing difficulties require emergency care.
Use insect repellents and protective clothing when in tick-infested areas. Tuck pant legs into socks. Carefully check the skin and hair after being outside and remove any ticks you find.
If you find a tick on your child, write the information down and keep it for several months. Many tick-borne diseases do not show symptoms right away, and you may forget the incident by the time your child becomes sick with a tick-borne disease.
Published Date: May 12, 2025
Published By: Jatin M. Vyas, MD, PhD, Roy and Diana Vagelos Professor in Medicine, Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, New York, NY. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
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Bolgiano EB, Sexton J. Tickborne illnesses. In: Walls RM, ed. Rosen's Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2023:chap 123.
Diaz JH. Ticks, including tick paralysis. In: Blaser MJ, Cohen JI, Holland SM, et al, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 10th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 302.