Amanda, the reason I'm suggesting you speak with the seller of this snake and with a herp vet is simple. No one can or should diagnose the various issues you've laid out in this thread. Seperately or together they can become greater problems. It may not be the start of serious things, but I'd hate for you as a new keeper to not respond proactively to these health issues.
That tick came from somewhere. If that snake was not exposed to ticks in your care, well it came from somewhere. If it came with damage on it's belly (whatever the cause), that should not have been a snake for sale until that was dealt with. If it has an RI brewing, that's not something you can deal with without a vet taking a look at that snake hands on.
A forum like this can give you supportive, not medical advice. A vet is your best bet, also a conversation with the seller and a close look at your own husbandry so that this snake has the best chance of returning to full vigor.