Tick with Lyme disease – what to do? - briefly
If a tick suspected of carrying Borrelia is attached, grasp it with fine‑tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure; disinfect the bite area afterward. Contact a healthcare professional within 72 hours for assessment and possible antibiotic prophylaxis.
Tick with Lyme disease – what to do? - in detail
If a tick that may carry the Lyme‑causing bacterium attaches to the skin, act promptly. First, grasp the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers as close to the skin as possible, pull upward with steady pressure, and avoid squeezing the body. After removal, cleanse the bite site with antiseptic and wash hands thoroughly.
Observe the area for the characteristic expanding red ring, known as erythema migrans, which can appear within 3–30 days. Record any additional signs: fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, and neurological symptoms such as facial palsy or meningitis‑like manifestations. Early detection of these manifestations guides treatment decisions.
Consult a healthcare professional without delay if:
- The tick was attached for more than 36 hours.
- The bite site develops a rash or enlarges.
- Systemic symptoms emerge.
- The patient is pregnant, immunocompromised, or has a history of severe Lyme disease.
Medical management typically involves a course of doxycycline (or amoxicillin for children and pregnant women) for 10–21 days, initiated as soon as possible after diagnosis. In cases of late‑stage disease, intravenous ceftriaxone may be required.
Preventive measures reduce future risk:
- Wear long sleeves and trousers in endemic areas; tuck clothing into socks.
- Apply EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 to skin and clothing.
- Perform full‑body tick checks every 2–3 hours during outdoor activities; shower within two hours of returning.
- Treat clothing with permethrin before use.
- Maintain lawns by mowing regularly and removing leaf litter.
Document the encounter: note date, location, duration of attachment, and species if identifiable. This information assists clinicians in assessing exposure risk and selecting appropriate therapy. Prompt removal, vigilant monitoring, and timely medical intervention together minimize the likelihood of chronic infection and associated complications.