What should be done for a bump from a tick? - briefly
Clean the bite site with soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and watch for increasing redness, swelling, fever, or a rash; if any of these symptoms develop, obtain medical evaluation promptly.
What should be done for a bump from a tick? - in detail
If a skin elevation appears after a tick attachment, begin by removing the arthropod promptly. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible with fine‑point tweezers, pull upward with steady, even pressure, and avoid crushing the body. After extraction, cleanse the site with soap and water or an antiseptic solution such as povidone‑iodine.
Observe the area for the next 24–48 hours. Typical reactions include a red, slightly raised papule that may enlarge to a small nodule. Record any changes in size, color, or the emergence of a target‑shaped rash, which can indicate a secondary infection or early Lyme disease.
If the lesion remains localized and painless, continue daily cleaning and apply a thin layer of a topical antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin) to prevent bacterial colonisation. Replace the dressing if it becomes wet or contaminated.
Seek professional medical evaluation under any of the following conditions:
- Persistent fever, chills, or malaise.
- Expansion of the rash beyond the original site, especially a bull’s‑eye pattern.
- Swelling that spreads to adjacent lymph nodes or joints.
- Severe pain, pus formation, or rapid enlargement of the bump.
- History of residence in or travel to areas endemic for tick‑borne illnesses.
A clinician may prescribe oral antibiotics (doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime) if early Lyme disease or another infection is suspected. In cases of significant inflammation, a short course of non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs can reduce discomfort.
Preventive measures for future exposures include wearing long sleeves and trousers, applying EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin, and performing thorough body checks after outdoor activities. Prompt tick removal and proper wound care are the primary actions to mitigate complications from a bite‑related bump.