What should I do after a tick bite that causes Lyme disease? - briefly
Seek prompt medical evaluation and start the recommended antibiotic regimen (typically doxycycline) as soon as possible; continue to watch for the characteristic rash, fever, or joint pain and inform your clinician of any new symptoms.
What should I do after a tick bite that causes Lyme disease? - in detail
When a tick is discovered attached to the skin, remove it promptly with fine‑point tweezers, grasping as close to the mouthparts as possible. Pull straight upward with steady pressure, avoiding twisting or crushing. After removal, clean the bite site with soap and water or an antiseptic solution and keep the area uncovered.
Monitor the wound for at least several weeks. Watch for a circular rash that expands outward, often described as a “bull’s‑eye,” and for systemic signs such as fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, or joint pain. Record the date of the bite, the location of the tick on the body, and any emerging symptoms.
Seek professional medical assessment without delay if any of the following are present: rash characteristic of Lyme infection, flu‑like illness, or if the tick was attached for more than 24 hours. Provide the clinician with the documented timeline and, if possible, a picture of the tick for species identification.
If a diagnosis of early Lyme disease is confirmed, initiate antibiotic therapy promptly. Doxycycline (100 mg twice daily for 10‑21 days) is the first‑line oral agent for adults and children over eight years. For younger children, pregnant women, or individuals with contraindications, amoxicillin (500 mg three times daily for 14‑21 days) or cefuroxime axetil (500 mg twice daily for 14‑21 days) are appropriate alternatives. Ensure the full prescribed course is completed, even if symptoms improve before the regimen ends.
Schedule a follow‑up appointment within two to four weeks to evaluate treatment response. If symptoms persist, consider extended or intravenous antibiotic regimens as directed by an infectious‑disease specialist. Maintain a log of any lingering or new manifestations, such as joint swelling or neurological changes, and report them promptly.
To reduce future risk, perform regular tick checks after outdoor activities, especially in wooded or grassy areas. Wear long sleeves and pants, treat clothing with permethrin, and use EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET or picaridin on exposed skin. Prompt removal of attached ticks remains the most effective preventive measure.