What should a child be given to drink after a tick bite? - briefly
Offer plain water or an oral rehydration solution to maintain proper hydration. Avoid sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic beverages.
What should a child be given to drink after a tick bite? - in detail
After a tick attachment, the first priority is to keep the child well‑hydrated. Plain water is the safest option; it restores fluid balance without adding unnecessary sugars or additives. If the child shows signs of mild dehydration—dry mouth, reduced urine output, or irritability—offer an oral rehydration solution (ORS) that contains electrolytes and glucose in the recommended concentration. ORS helps replenish sodium and potassium lost through sweating or fever.
Avoid sugary beverages such as soda, fruit‑juice cocktails, or sports drinks that contain high fructose corn syrup. These can cause rapid spikes in blood glucose and may aggravate gastrointestinal upset that sometimes follows a tick bite. Milk or fortified plant‑based drinks are acceptable if the child tolerates them, but they should not replace water or ORS when dehydration is a concern.
If the bite site becomes inflamed, painful, or the child develops fever, rash, or joint aches, seek medical evaluation promptly. An clinician may prescribe antibiotics for potential Lyme disease or other tick‑borne infections, and fluid recommendations may be adjusted based on the child's overall condition and any prescribed medications.
In summary:
- Give plain water regularly; encourage small, frequent sips.
- Use oral rehydration salts for signs of dehydration.
- Limit or skip sugary drinks and high‑caffeine beverages.
- Consider milk or fortified alternatives only as supplemental fluids.
- Contact a healthcare professional if systemic symptoms appear.