How can you reduce inflammation from a tick bite? - briefly
Clean the bite with soap and water, apply a cold compress, and take an oral NSAID or antihistamine to curb swelling and pain. Monitor the area for increasing redness, fever, or a rash and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms progress.
How can you reduce inflammation from a tick bite? - in detail
Removing the tick promptly and correctly is the first step. Grasp the body of the parasite with fine‑point tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and avoid squeezing the abdomen. After extraction, disinfect the bite site with an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine.
Apply a cold compress to the area for 10–15 minutes, repeating every hour for the first few hours. The cold stimulus constricts blood vessels, reducing edema and discomfort.
Topical anti‑inflammatory agents can further limit swelling. A thin layer of 1 % hydrocortisone cream applied two to three times daily diminishes local irritation. If itching is present, a 1 % antihistamine cream (e.g., diphenhydramine) may be used.
Oral non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) provide systemic relief. Ibuprofen 400 mg every 6 hours or naproxen 250 mg every 12 hours are effective; dosage should not exceed recommended maximums and contraindications must be observed.
Observe the wound for escalating redness, warmth, pus, or flu‑like symptoms. Persistent or worsening inflammation, a expanding rash, or joint pain warrants immediate medical evaluation to exclude tick‑borne infections such as Lyme disease.
Hydration, adequate rest, and a balanced diet support the immune response and promote tissue repair while the inflammation subsides.