From the Research
The primary treatment for tick-borne paralysis is prompt removal of the attached tick, as evidenced by the most recent study 1, which highlights the importance of prompt removal in resolving symptoms. The tick should be carefully removed using fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin's surface as possible and pulling upward with steady, even pressure to avoid leaving mouthparts embedded in the skin. After removal, the area should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water or alcohol. In severe cases where respiratory muscles are affected, hospitalization for supportive care may be necessary, potentially including mechanical ventilation until symptoms resolve. Unlike other tick-borne diseases, tick paralysis does not require antibiotic treatment as it is caused by a neurotoxin released by the tick's salivary glands rather than a bacterial infection, as noted in 2. The toxin interferes with acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions, causing the ascending paralysis. Complete recovery is expected in most cases once the tick is removed, though symptoms may take up to several days to fully resolve, as seen in 3. Some cases may present with rare complications, such as ocular complications and facial nerve involvement, as reported in 1, but these are not typical and may require additional treatment. It's worth noting that the method of tick removal is crucial, with fine-tipped tweezers being the recommended method, as it significantly reduces the risk of complications and infection, as shown in 4. Overall, prompt removal of the tick and supportive care are the mainstays of treatment for tick-borne paralysis, with complete recovery expected in most cases.