Beyond the Bullseye: 13 Lesser-Known Warning Signs of Tick-Borne Illness
10. Sound's Sharp Edges: When Noise Becomes an Assault

Suddenly finding everyday sounds – a closing door, clattering dishes, even conversations – unbearably loud or painful? This newfound hypersensitivity to sound, known as hyperacusis, can be a perplexing symptom linked to tick-borne illness. Alternatively, you might develop persistent tinnitus (ringing, buzzing, or hissing in the ears) or even subtle hearing loss. These auditory anomalies, especially when appearing without a clear ear-related injury or infection, can be a clue to a systemic, tick-transmitted infection.