What should I apply if a tick's head remains? - briefly
Apply fine‑tipped tweezers to grasp the retained mouthparts and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then clean the area with an antiseptic such as iodine or alcohol.
What should I apply if a tick's head remains? - in detail
When a tick is removed but the mouthparts stay embedded, the wound requires prompt care to reduce infection risk. First, cleanse the area with soap and running water. Follow with an antiseptic such as povidone‑iodine or chlorhexidine; apply a thin layer and allow it to dry.
Recommended topical agents include:
- Broad‑spectrum antibiotic ointment (e.g., bacitracin, neomycin, or mupirocin) applied twice daily for 3–5 days.
- Sterile adhesive bandage to protect the site from irritation and secondary contamination.
- Over‑the‑counter analgesic cream if discomfort persists.
If redness, swelling, or a fever develops within 24–48 hours, seek medical evaluation. A healthcare professional may prescribe oral antibiotics (doxycycline, amoxicillin‑clavulanate) and assess for tick‑borne diseases such as Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Documentation of the tick removal date and any symptoms supports accurate diagnosis and treatment.