What does a bump from a tick bite look like? - briefly
A tick bite usually appears as a tiny, red, raised bump, sometimes surrounded by a faint halo. If the lesion expands, becomes painful, or forms a concentric “bull’s‑eye” pattern, seek medical evaluation.
What does a bump from a tick bite look like? - in detail
A tick bite typically leaves a small, raised area on the skin that may be mistaken for a pimple or insect sting. The lesion often appears as a firm, dome‑shaped bump, ranging from a few millimeters to about a centimeter in diameter. Its color can vary from pink or reddish to a darker brown, depending on the individual’s skin tone and the stage of the reaction.
Key characteristics include:
- Size: 2–10 mm, occasionally larger if inflammation spreads.
- Shape: Rounded, sometimes slightly irregular if the tick’s mouthparts remain embedded.
- Surface texture: Smooth to slightly rough; may develop a central puncture point where the tick attached.
- Surrounding skin: May show mild erythema, swelling, or a halo of redness extending a few millimeters from the core.
- Evolution over time: Initially tender, the bump can become less painful and flatten within a few days. In some cases, a small ulcer or scab forms at the center, especially if the tick’s hypostome stays lodged.
When the bite is accompanied by a “bull’s‑eye” pattern—an erythematous ring surrounding a clear central area—this pattern is classic for certain infections, such as Lyme disease, and warrants medical evaluation.
If the bump persists beyond a week, enlarges, or is associated with fever, headache, joint pain, or a rash elsewhere on the body, immediate professional assessment is recommended to rule out tick‑borne illnesses.