What should I do if I find a tick on my body? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑tipped tweezers as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure until it releases. Disinfect the bite site, wash your hands, and monitor the area for several weeks, seeking medical attention if a rash or fever appears.
What should I do if I find a tick on my body? - in detail
Discovering a tick attached to your skin requires prompt and precise action. First, stop any activity that may cause the parasite to detach unintentionally; remain still and keep the area exposed.
Use fine‑point tweezers or a specialized tick‑removal tool. Grip the tick as close to the skin surface as possible, avoiding compression of its abdomen. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; do not twist, jerk, or squeeze. After removal, inspect the mouthparts; if any remain, attempt a second gentle extraction with the same method.
Clean the bite site and your hands with antiseptic solution or soap and water. Apply a mild antiseptic ointment if desired, then cover with a clean bandage. Preserve the tick in a sealed container with a piece of moist cotton for identification, especially if symptoms develop later.
Observe the site for signs of infection—redness extending beyond the bite, swelling, or a rash resembling a “bull’s‑eye.” Record any fever, headache, muscle aches, or fatigue that appear within two weeks, as these may indicate tick‑borne disease.
Seek medical evaluation promptly if any of the following occur: persistent rash, flu‑like symptoms, difficulty breathing, or if you are unable to remove the tick completely. A healthcare professional may prescribe prophylactic antibiotics or conduct laboratory testing based on regional disease prevalence.