How should allergy after a tick bite be treated? - briefly
Treat the reaction with oral antihistamines and, if needed, a brief course of systemic corticosteroids, while applying topical steroid creams to the affected skin. Observe for signs of severe allergy such as difficulty breathing and seek emergency medical care immediately if they occur.
How should allergy after a tick bite be treated? - in detail
When a tick bite triggers an allergic response, the first step is to remove the arthropod promptly. Grasp the head with fine‑point tweezers, pull straight upward, and clean the area with antiseptic.
If localized symptoms such as redness, swelling, or itching appear, administer a second‑generation antihistamine (e.g., cetirizine 10 mg once daily) to reduce histamine‑mediated inflammation. For moderate edema or urticaria, add a short course of oral corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone 0.5 mg/kg daily for 3–5 days) to suppress the immune reaction.
When systemic involvement is suspected—difficulty breathing, throat tightness, hypotension, or rapid pulse—inject epinephrine intramuscularly (0.3 mg of 1 mg/mL solution in the anterolateral thigh) without delay. Follow with emergency medical services and prepare for possible additional doses if symptoms persist.
Supportive measures include:
- Cool compresses on the bite site to alleviate pain and swelling.
- Oral analgesics (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) for discomfort.
- Hydration to maintain circulatory volume in cases of severe reaction.
Patients with a known history of severe insect‑bite allergies should carry an auto‑injector and be educated on its use. After initial treatment, arrange follow‑up within 24–48 hours to assess resolution and adjust medication if needed.
If the reaction does not improve within a few hours, or if new symptoms emerge (e.g., fever, rash spreading beyond the bite), seek urgent medical evaluation. Continuous monitoring for delayed hypersensitivity, such as serum‑sickness‑like presentations, is advisable for at least a week after exposure.