What should you do if a tick climbs onto your head? - briefly
Grasp the tick with fine‑pointed tweezers as close to the scalp as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure; then disinfect the bite site and watch for any symptoms. Dispose of the tick safely and consult a healthcare professional if removal is problematic or illness signs develop.
What should you do if a tick climbs onto your head? - in detail
If a tick finds its way onto your scalp, act promptly to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Begin by locating the parasite with a bright light; the hair may conceal it, so part the strands carefully. Use fine‑point tweezers, gripping the tick as close to the skin as possible, without pinching the body. Pull upward with steady, even pressure until the mouthparts detach. Avoid twisting or jerking, which can leave fragments embedded.
After removal, clean the bite site and your hands with soap and water or an alcohol swab. Inspect the area for any remaining parts; if any remain, repeat the extraction process. Apply a mild antiseptic to the wound and cover with a sterile bandage only if bleeding occurs.
Record the date of the bite, the tick’s appearance, and any symptoms that develop. Monitor for signs such as rash, fever, headache, or fatigue over the next several weeks. Should any of these manifest, seek medical evaluation and provide the recorded details.
To lower future exposure, wear a hat or head covering when walking through tall grass or wooded areas. Use EPA‑registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 on exposed skin and hair. Perform full‑body checks, including the scalp, after outdoor activities, and remove any attached ticks promptly following the steps outlined above.