How to cure a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
Extract the embedded tick using sterile tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out without crushing the body; then disinfect the site with an antiseptic and observe for signs of infection. Seek medical evaluation if the bite area becomes inflamed, painful, or if systemic symptoms develop.
How to cure a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
A tick that has penetrated the dermis and is lodged beneath the skin surface requires prompt and precise extraction to prevent pathogen transmission and tissue damage.
The first action is to stop any further feeding. Apply a cold compress for 30 seconds to immobilize the parasite and reduce blood flow.
Necessary instruments include:
- Fine‑point, flat‑tipped tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool;
- Sterile gauze;
- Antiseptic solution (e.g., povidone‑iodine);
- Small pair of scissors for trimming if the mouthparts remain embedded;
- Bandage and topical antibiotic ointment.
Removal procedure:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, holding the body, not the legs.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or jerking motions.
- If resistance is felt, maintain traction until the head separates; do not squeeze the abdomen.
- Inspect the wound; if mouthparts are visible, use sterile scissors to cut them away flush with the skin.
- Disinfect the area with antiseptic and apply a thin layer of antibiotic ointment.
After extraction, monitor the site for redness, swelling, or pus. Record the date of removal and any symptoms such as fever, fatigue, or rash. Seek professional medical evaluation if:
- The bite area enlarges beyond 2 cm;
- Persistent pain or itching occurs;
- Flu‑like symptoms develop within 2–14 days;
- The tick cannot be removed completely.
Preventive measures include wearing long sleeves and trousers in tick‑infested habitats, treating clothing with permethrin, and performing full‑body inspections after outdoor exposure. Regular landscaping to eliminate leaf litter and tall grass reduces the likelihood of encounters.
Effective treatment hinges on swift, clean extraction, vigilant observation, and timely medical consultation when complications arise.