Tick Tock Ticks: Slow, but Deadly Killers

Ticks are parasitic arachnids that usually feed on the blood of mammals, although there have been cases of ticks living on the blood of birds, reptiles, and even amphibians. Like their fellow bloodsucker, the mosquito, ticks alone are nuisances and their bites can be painful. However, it's their role as carriers of a variety of diseases that makes them very dangerous to humans.

Perhaps the most well-known illnesses that's attributed to these little creepy crawlies is Lyme disease. Those suffering from Lyme disease will experience fever, headaches, fatigue, depression, and skin rashes. If left untreated, the disease can start to affect the joints, nervous system, and even the heart. In rare cases, Lyme disease may cause psychological disorders, such as frank psychosis, delusional behavior, and anxiety attacks. There have also been reports that Lyme disease can be chronic; forever keeping its victims debilitated.

Lyme disease can thankfully be treated and cured, especially if detected in its early stages. There are also vaccines that can be introduced into the body which can help fight off Lyme disease. However, prevention remains the best cure, as households are encouraged to control possible tick infestations in their backyard to avoid getting bitten by the pests and suffering the consequences.