How to remove an engorged tick? - briefly
Use fine‑pointed tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until it releases. Clean the bite site with antiseptic and wash your hands afterward.
How to remove an engorged tick? - in detail
Removing a swollen tick requires precision to prevent pathogen transmission.
Gather fine‑pointed tweezers, disposable gloves, antiseptic solution, and a sealed container for disposal. Clean hands and the bite area with alcohol before beginning.
- Put on gloves.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, holding the head or mouthparts, not the body.
- Apply steady, upward pressure; avoid twisting or squeezing the abdomen.
- Continue pulling until the entire organism separates from the skin.
After extraction, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic and let it air‑dry. Inspect the tick to confirm that no parts remain; retained mouthparts can cause local irritation. If any fragment stays embedded, repeat the removal process or seek professional care.
Place the tick in a sealed bag, label with date and location, and discard in household trash.
Observe the wound for redness, swelling, or fever over the next two weeks. Any signs of infection or illness warrant immediate medical evaluation.
Prevent future encounters by wearing long clothing, applying approved repellents, and performing regular body checks after outdoor activities.