Beyond the Bullseye: 13 Lesser-Known Warning Signs of Tick-Borne Illness

5. The Heart's Unsettling Rhythm: Subtle Cardiac Clues

Beyond dramatic chest pain, tick-borne illnesses like Lyme carditis can subtly disrupt your heart's normal function. You might notice new or worsening heart palpitations, a sensation of fluttering or skipped beats, especially at rest. Unexplained lightheadedness, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, or an unusual awareness of your heartbeat could also signal cardiac involvement. While less common, these symptoms are serious and require prompt medical attention if a tick-borne infection is suspected.