What should you do if a tick swells? - briefly
Remove the engorged tick promptly using fine‑pointed tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling upward with steady pressure; then cleanse the bite site with antiseptic and observe for any signs of infection or illness. If symptoms such as rash, fever, or joint pain develop, seek medical attention immediately.
What should you do if a tick swells? - in detail
If a tick enlarges after attachment, act promptly to reduce the risk of disease transmission. First, isolate the area with clean hands or gloves. Use fine‑point tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, avoiding compression of the abdomen. Pull upward with steady, even pressure; do not twist or jerk, which can leave mouthparts embedded. After removal, place the specimen in a sealed container for identification if needed, then discard it safely.
Clean the bite site with an antiseptic solution such as iodine or alcohol. Apply a mild disinfectant to the surrounding skin and allow it to dry. Observe the wound for signs of infection—redness, swelling, pus, or increasing pain—and treat accordingly with topical antibiotics if required.
Monitor the individual for systemic symptoms over the next several weeks. Record any fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, or rash, especially a bull’s‑eye pattern. If any of these manifestations appear, seek medical evaluation without delay; early antibiotic therapy is most effective for tick‑borne illnesses.
For high‑risk situations—large engorged ticks, prolonged attachment (over 24 hours), or exposure in regions known for Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, or other endemic pathogens—consult a healthcare professional immediately, even in the absence of symptoms. Documentation of the tick’s size, location, and removal date assists clinicians in determining appropriate prophylaxis.
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