How to treat swelling after a tick bite? - briefly
Clean the bite site with soap and water, apply a cold compress for 10‑15 minutes several times a day, and keep the area elevated; if swelling does not improve within 24‑48 hours or is accompanied by fever, rash, or pain, obtain medical evaluation for possible antibiotics or anti‑inflammatory treatment.
How to treat swelling after a tick bite? - in detail
When a tick bite causes localized swelling, prompt care reduces discomfort and lowers the risk of complications.
First, remove the tick with fine‑point tweezers, grasping as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight upward. Clean the area with soap and water or an antiseptic solution.
Apply a cold compress for 10–15 minutes, repeating every hour for the first few hours to limit inflammation.
If itching or mild pain persists, consider over‑the‑counter antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine) and non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) at the recommended dosage.
Monitor the site for signs of infection: increasing redness, warmth, pus, or a spreading rash. Also watch for systemic symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, or a bullseye‑shaped lesion, which may indicate early Lyme disease.
Seek medical evaluation promptly if any of the following occur:
- Rapid expansion of swelling
- Severe pain unrelieved by analgesics
- Fever or flu‑like symptoms
- Development of a target‑shaped rash
A healthcare professional may prescribe a short course of antibiotics if bacterial infection is suspected, or a specific regimen for tick‑borne disease based on regional guidelines.
After initial treatment, keep the area clean, change dressings daily, and avoid scratching. Document the date of the bite and the tick removal method, as this information assists clinicians in diagnosing potential infections.
Continued observation for up to four weeks is advisable, because some tick‑borne illnesses manifest later. If symptoms emerge during this period, contact a medical provider without delay.