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.
Atrium Health Primary Care Charlotte Medical Clinic
Erika Bono is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Bono is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. Her top areas of expertise are Melorheostosis, Melorheostosis with Osteopoikilosis, Osteopenia, and Tick Paralysis. Dr. Bono is currently accepting new patients.
Rob Webster practices in Carrara, Australia. Mr. Webster is rated as an Elite expert by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. His top areas of expertise are Tick Paralysis and Facial Paralysis.
Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center
John Norris is an Allergy and Immunologist in Charlotte, North Carolina. Dr. Norris is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Tick Paralysis. His top areas of expertise are Grass Allergy, Allergic Rhinitis, Tick Paralysis, and Sinusitis.
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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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.