How should you treat skin after tick removal? - briefly
After extracting the tick, wash the bite site with soap and water and apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine. Keep the area covered with a clean dressing and check daily for redness, swelling, or rash.
How should you treat skin after tick removal? - in detail
After a tick is taken out, the first step is to cleanse the bite site. Wash the area with mild soap and running water, then rinse thoroughly. Apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine; let it dry before covering.
Next, inspect the wound. If the skin appears intact and there is no visible damage, a sterile adhesive bandage can protect the area. If there is a small puncture or slight bleeding, apply gentle pressure with a clean gauze pad until bleeding stops, then place a bandage.
Observe the site for at least 24 hours. Record any of the following:
- Redness expanding beyond a few millimeters
- Swelling or warmth
- Persistent pain or throbbing sensation
- Fluid drainage or pus
- Fever, chills, headache, or muscle aches
If any of these signs develop, seek medical evaluation promptly.
Consider prophylactic measures based on exposure risk. In regions where Lyme disease or other tick‑borne infections are common, a single dose of doxycycline (200 mg for adults, 4 mg/kg for children) may be prescribed within 72 hours of removal, provided there are no contraindications. Discuss this option with a healthcare professional.
Maintain a log of the removal date, tick identification (if possible), and any symptoms that arise. This record assists clinicians in diagnosing potential infections and determining appropriate treatment.
Finally, avoid re‑exposure. Use insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin, wear long sleeves and trousers in tick habitats, and perform regular body checks after outdoor activities.