What does a bite from a furniture tick look like? - briefly
A bite typically presents as a tiny red bump with a pinpoint puncture at the center, sometimes surrounded by a faint halo. The area may swell, itch, or develop a dark scab if the tick remains attached.
What does a bite from a furniture tick look like? - in detail
A bite delivered by a furniture‑dwelling tick typically appears as a small, red puncture surrounded by a faint halo. The central point may be barely visible, often measuring 1–3 mm in diameter. Swelling can develop within a few hours, forming a raised, firm bump that may reach up to 5 mm across. The skin around the bite may become slightly warm and tender to the touch.
Itching is common and can intensify over 24–48 hours. In some cases, a secondary rash emerges, resembling a target or “bull’s‑eye” pattern, especially if the tick is a carrier of disease‑causing agents. The progression of symptoms often follows this sequence:
- Immediate: mild redness, pinpoint puncture.
- 2–6 hours: localized swelling, mild pain.
- 12–24 hours: increased erythema, itching, possible central clearing.
- 48 hours and beyond: resolution or, if infection occurs, spreading redness, fever, or lymph node enlargement.
Key distinguishing features from other arthropod bites include:
- Presence of a tiny, often invisible mouthpart scar at the center.
- Absence of a noticeable bite mark from a stinger; ticks embed their hypostome rather than inject venom.
- Potential for a prolonged attachment period; the bite may persist for several days if the tick remains attached, leading to a larger, more inflamed area.
If the bite enlarges, becomes increasingly painful, or is accompanied by systemic signs such as fever, headache, or muscle aches, medical evaluation is advised to rule out tick‑borne illnesses. Prompt removal of the attached tick and thorough cleaning of the site with antiseptic reduce the risk of secondary infection.