How to expel a subcutaneous tick? - briefly
Using fine‑pointed tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until it releases, avoiding twisting or squeezing the body. Disinfect the bite site with alcohol or iodine and monitor the area for any signs of infection over the following days.
How to expel a subcutaneous tick? - in detail
Removing a tick that has embedded itself beneath the skin requires careful technique to avoid leaving mouthparts behind and to minimize tissue damage.
First, assess the situation. Confirm that the tick is indeed subcutaneous rather than merely attached to the surface. Subcutaneous ticks appear as a small, raised nodule, often with a visible central puncture point.
Prepare sterile tools. Required items include:
- Fine-tipped tweezers or a specialized tick removal hook
- Disinfectant (e.g., 70 % isopropyl alcohol)
- Antiseptic ointment
- Bandage
- Gloves
Follow these steps:
- Disinfect the surrounding skin and the instruments with alcohol. Wear gloves to protect against potential pathogens.
- Expose the tick as much as possible. Gently stretch the skin around the nodule to create a flat surface for better grip.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as feasible. Use the tweezers to hold the tick’s head or the hook to engage the mouthparts without squeezing the body.
- Apply steady, upward traction. Pull straight out along the axis of entry, avoiding twisting or jerking motions that could fracture the mouthparts.
- Inspect the extracted specimen. If any portion of the mouth remains in the skin, repeat the grasp‑and‑pull maneuver, aiming to remove the residual fragment.
- Clean the bite site with antiseptic and cover with a sterile bandage.
- Monitor the area for signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus) or lingering irritation over the next 24‑48 hours. Seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
If the tick cannot be removed with standard tools, or if the practitioner is uncertain about the completeness of extraction, consult a healthcare professional. Surgical removal under local anesthesia may be required to prevent secondary infection and ensure full eradication of the parasite.