Tick, how to remove it and what to do next? - briefly
Use fine‑pointed tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; avoid twisting or squeezing the body. Clean the bite site with antiseptic, watch for signs of infection or rash, and seek medical advice if symptoms develop or if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours.
Tick, how to remove it and what to do next? - in detail
Ticks attach to the skin and feed on blood, creating a pathway for pathogens. Prompt removal reduces the risk of disease transmission.
The removal procedure follows a precise sequence:
- Use fine‑tipped tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, targeting the mouthparts.
- Apply steady, upward pressure without twisting or jerking.
- Release the tick once it detaches, avoiding crushing the body.
- Disinfect the bite area with antiseptic solution.
- Store the removed tick in a sealed container for identification if needed.
After extraction, monitor the site for signs of infection: redness, swelling, or a rash resembling a target. Record the date of removal, geographic location, and any observed symptoms. Wash hands thoroughly before and after handling the tick.
Seek medical evaluation if any of the following occur within weeks of the bite:
- Fever, chills, or fatigue.
- Headache, muscle aches, or joint pain.
- A characteristic bullseye rash.
- Persistent redness or swelling around the bite.
Consultation ensures appropriate testing and possible administration of prophylactic antibiotics or other treatments.