What should be done for redness around a tick bite? - briefly
Clean the bite site with soap and water, apply a topical antiseptic, and cover with a sterile bandage. If redness spreads, fever develops, or a rash appears, obtain prompt medical assessment.
What should be done for redness around a tick bite? - in detail
After a tick detaches, cleanse the bite site with soap and water, then apply an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine. Remove any remaining mouthparts carefully with fine tweezers; avoid squeezing the skin.
Observe the surrounding skin for erythema. Note the diameter, whether the redness expands, the presence of warmth, tenderness, or a central clearing. Document any accompanying symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, or muscle aches.
Initial care may include:
- Applying a cold compress for 10–15 minutes to reduce swelling.
- Using an over‑the‑counter antihistamine to relieve itching.
- Covering the area with a sterile gauze if discharge appears.
Seek professional evaluation if any of the following occur:
- Redness enlarges beyond 5 cm or forms a concentric pattern.
- A bullseye‑shaped lesion develops.
- Systemic signs such as fever, malaise, or joint pain emerge.
- The bite site becomes increasingly painful or exudes pus.
Medical management can involve:
- Topical antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin) applied twice daily.
- Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline 100 mg twice daily for 10–14 days) for suspected bacterial infection or early Lyme disease.
- Analgesics (e.g., acetaminophen) for discomfort.
- Prescription antihistamines for severe pruritus.
Follow‑up includes re‑examining the bite site after 48–72 hours. Persistent or worsening erythema warrants repeat assessment and possible laboratory testing for tick‑borne pathogens. Early intervention reduces the risk of complications such as cellulitis or Lyme disease.