Feeling unwell after recent tick bite, should I see my GP?

[Moonlightfrog]

I have been feeling unwell all week but can’t put my finger on what’s wrong, I feel achy (neck, knees, arms), weird vivid dreams, feeling exhausted and slight temp which comes and goes. Almost 3 weeks ago I was bitten by a tick which took me by surprise, I work outdoors and I get ticks often but not this early in the year. I removed the tick which was on my leg, it was a bit itchy for a day but no bulls eye or rash. I get bitten so often (usually around 10 times a year) and I just remove them and keep an eye out for the rash. I am now worried as I feel off, maybe just a virus but coincidence that I was bitten?

Should I be seeing my GP? Or am I being paranoid?

Yes, I think you should go.

You need to consider Lymes disease.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/lyme-disease/

Yes. I would see a GP and specifically ask them to test and treat you for potential Lymes Disease.

10 tick bites a year is a lot. That would really worry me. Can you not wear repellent and keep your skin covered? Honestly I think I'd be wrapping myself head to toe in clingfilm with that many ticks about.

I hope you feel better soon.

I had the same two years ago. I went to the GP and was given a 3 week course of antibiotics. They do seem to take tick bites seriously.

My gardener was bitten recently and developed the classic round rash. He was also given a 3 week course of antibiotics.

I would book an appointment asap.

Thank you.
I do wear bug spray (when I remember too) and I wear long socks, trousers etc…, I still seem to attract them.

I have been treated once before with antibiotic, after one of my first tick bites, I had no symptoms but my GP prescribed them anyway. I am not a fan of taking such a long course of antibiotics unless I really need too and because I get bitten so often I would be on them constantly.

I will try and get an appointment with my GP on Monday, I doubt I can get one today.

Ring today and ask if you can book a blood test for Lyme disease

I think this time you do need treatment. As you say, it's not ideal to take antibiotics up to 10 times a year so I suggest you take more precautions in future. Tuck your trousers into your socks and cover all your clothes with anti tick spray. Then use a lint roller all over when you come inside and put your clothes immediately into the washing machine.

I have put in a request for a call back (that’s how my gp works), hopefully they will call be before the end of the day and maybe squeeze me in for an appointment.