How to pull out a sunk‑in tick?

How to pull out a sunk‑in tick? - briefly

Using fine‑point tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach; do not twist or crush the body. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and watch for any signs of infection.

How to pull out a sunk‑in tick? - in detail

Removing a tick that has penetrated deeply into the skin requires precision and care to avoid breaking the mouthparts. Use a pair of fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grip the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, securing the head and the body together. Apply steady, upward pressure without twisting; a smooth motion pulls the parasite out in one piece.

If the tick’s mouthparts remain embedded, follow these steps:

  • Disinfect the bite area with an antiseptic solution.
  • Use a sterilised needle or a small, sharp scalpel to gently lift the exposed portion of the mouthparts.
  • Grasp the exposed tip with tweezers and pull straight upward.
  • Apply additional antiseptic after removal and monitor the site for signs of infection.

After extraction, wash hands thoroughly, keep the bite clean, and observe the area for redness, swelling, or fever for the next several days. If any symptoms develop, seek medical advice promptly.