Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

We pray that Bennett does not have rocky mountain spotted fever. It’s always better to be on the cautious side. Just to refresh my memory I looked up RMSF and here are the results. I know we are doing the right thing to have him checked for this.

What are the symptoms of Rocky Mountain spotted fever?

Rocky Mountain spotted fever is characterized by a sudden onset of moderate to high fever (which can last for two or three weeks), severe headache, fatigue, deep muscle pain, chills and rash. The rash begins on the legs or arms, may include the soles of the feet or palms of the hands and may spread rapidly to the trunk or the rest of the body. Not every case of Rocky Mountain spotted fever will have the rash.

How soon do symptoms appear?

Symptoms usually appear between three and 14 days after the bite of an infected tick. Any person experiencing illness with a fever following a tick bite should consult his or her physician and advise the physician of the tick bite.

How is Rocky Mountain spotted fever diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Rocky Mountain spotted fever is based largely on the patient’s signs and symptom’s of illness. Blood tests are important in confirming a diagnosis, but treatment should begin promptly if symptoms and exposure history support this diagnosis.

Posted by Cindy on March 26th, 2009 in Updates | 2 Comments

2 Responses to ' Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever '

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  1. Aunt Annette said on March 27th, 2009: 8:13 am

    We are praying for Bennett—-and some prayer chains started last night for him-26th. You Are doing the right thing to have him checked for the RMSF. So thankful his temp was normal this AM. Love yas!

  2. Kelly Berkemeier said on March 27th, 2009: 8:27 am

    Cindy- Just letting you know that I am praying for a safe trip and positive results from todays doctor visit. I hope that all your results are good today Bennett. I also am hoping that you get to feeling better soon!! There are so many bugs going around right now and the weather going back and forth between warm and cool…..everyone at my house is battling congestion, coughing and sneezing!!! Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers and look forward to an updated post of good news!!

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