Found a tick in my head, what to do? - briefly
Use fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the scalp as possible and pull upward with steady pressure; then disinfect the area, keep the removed tick for identification, and contact a medical professional within 24 hours to evaluate any infection risk.
Found a tick in my head, what to do? - in detail
A live tick attached to the scalp requires immediate attention. First, confirm the presence of the parasite by visual inspection; a small, rounded body with legs, often hidden under hair, indicates a tick.
Removal procedure
- Use fine‑pointed tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding the abdomen.
- Apply steady, gentle pressure to pull upward without twisting.
- Release the tick into a sealed container for identification if needed.
Post‑removal care
- Clean the bite site with antiseptic solution or soap and water.
- Apply a mild antiseptic ointment to prevent secondary infection.
- Observe the area for redness, swelling, or a rash over the next 24‑48 hours.
Medical evaluation
Seek professional assessment if:
- The tick could have been attached for more than 24 hours.
- The bite site shows expanding redness, a bullseye pattern, or flu‑like symptoms.
- The individual is pregnant, immunocompromised, or has a history of allergic reactions.
Prevention measures
- Wear a hat or head covering when walking through tall grass or wooded areas.
- Perform thorough head checks after outdoor activities, using a mirror or assistance from another person.
- Maintain short hair or keep hair tied back to reduce hiding places for ticks.
Prompt removal and proper wound care lower the risk of tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or anaplasmosis. Continuous monitoring ensures early detection of any complications.