After a tick bite, a lump appeared: what should be done? - briefly
Immediately cleanse the bite site with antiseptic, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling, and arrange prompt medical evaluation to assess for tick‑borne infection, especially if the nodule exceeds 2 cm or is painful. Early antibiotic treatment may be necessary to prevent complications such as Lyme disease.
After a tick bite, a lump appeared: what should be done? - in detail
When a tick bite is followed by a palpable swelling, immediate measures focus on removal, cleaning, and assessment.
First, extract the tick promptly. Use fine‑point tweezers, grasp the mouthparts as close to the skin as possible, and pull upward with steady pressure. Avoid twisting or crushing the body, which can increase pathogen transmission. After removal, disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine) and wash hands thoroughly.
Second, evaluate the lesion. Note size, color, tenderness, and any surrounding erythema. A raised, firm nodule may represent a local inflammatory reaction, a granuloma, or an early sign of infection. Document the date of the bite, the tick’s estimated stage (larva, nymph, adult), and any recent travel to endemic areas.
Third, seek professional medical evaluation if any of the following conditions are present:
- Nodule exceeds 1 cm in diameter or enlarges rapidly
- Persistent pain, warmth, or pus formation
- Systemic symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, or joint aches
- History of residence or travel to regions where Borrelia burgdorferi is prevalent
A clinician may perform a physical examination, order serologic testing for Lyme disease, or prescribe a short course of antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 10–14 days) when infection is suspected. In cases of isolated, benign inflammation, watchful waiting with daily monitoring is acceptable; the lesion typically resolves within a few weeks.
Finally, implement preventive strategies for future exposures:
- Wear long sleeves and trousers in tick‑infested habitats
- Apply EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin to skin and clothing
- Conduct thorough body checks after outdoor activities, focusing on scalp, armpits, groin, and behind knees
Prompt tick removal, proper wound care, and timely medical assessment reduce the risk of complications and ensure appropriate management of post‑bite swellings.