How to treat a wound after a tick bite? - briefly
Clean the bite area with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic and a sterile bandage; monitor for rash or fever and seek medical care promptly if symptoms of infection or tick‑borne disease appear.
How to treat a wound after a tick bite? - in detail
Treat the area promptly after a tick has been detached.
First, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑point tweezers. Pull upward with steady pressure; avoid twisting or squeezing the body to prevent mouth‑part retention. Inspect the bite site for any remaining parts; if fragments remain, repeat the removal process.
Next, cleanse the wound thoroughly. Rinse with running water, then scrub with mild soap. Apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine. Cover with a sterile, non‑adhesive dressing if bleeding persists.
Monitor the site for signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or escalating pain. Document any fever, headache, fatigue, or a circular rash (erythema migrans) emerging within 30 days, as these may indicate Lyme disease or other tick‑borne illnesses.
If any of the following conditions apply, seek medical evaluation immediately:
- Tick identified as Ixodes scapularis, Ixodes ricinus, or other known disease vectors.
- Attachment duration exceeds 24 hours.
- Patient presents with immunocompromise, pregnancy, or chronic illness.
- Development of systemic symptoms or expanding rash.
When a high‑risk tick bite is confirmed, a clinician may prescribe a single dose of doxycycline (200 mg for adults, 4.5 mg/kg for children ≥8 years) within 72 hours to reduce Lyme disease risk. Alternatives include amoxicillin or cefuroxime for contraindications.
Maintain proper wound care for 3–5 days: replace the dressing daily, keep the area dry, and avoid scratching. After the initial period, if no abnormalities appear, the wound may be left uncovered to air.
Document the date of the bite, tick species (if known), and any treatments administered. Retain this record for future medical consultations.