Bit by a Tick? Follow These 7 Quick Steps

Ticks

Warmer weather means ticks are back — and so is the risk of Lyme disease and other illnesses. If you find a tick, acting fast can help you avoid serious health problems. Here is what to do:

Step 1: Remove the Tick 
Use fine-tipped tweezers or a Tick Twister. Grasp the tick close to the skin and pull up steadily. Avoid twisting, this can cause parts to break off under the skin. After removal, wash the area with soap and water. 

Step 2: Take a Picture 
Take a clear photo of the tick. It may help identify if it was a deer tick (which carries Lyme disease) and is useful if you need medical care. 

Step 3: Check for More Ticks 
Look all over your body. Ticks hide in warm, moist places like under arms, behind knees, around waistbands, the scalp, and behind ears. Check kids and pets too. Make tick checks a daily habit, especially if you are outside.   

Step 4: Know When to Get Care 
If the tick was attached for more than 36 hours, or you are not sure how long, contact your primary care provider or visit an urgent care center. If caught early — within 72 hours — a dose of antibiotics can reduce your risk of  Lyme disease. 

Step 5: Watch for Symptoms 
A little redness is normal but watch for: 

  • A bullseye-shaped rash 
  • Fever, chills, body aches, or fatigue 
  • Swollen lymph nodes 

If you have symptoms, even weeks after the bite, get medical care right away. Early treatment is key. 

Step 6:  Seek Immediate Care if Needed 
Go to an urgent care center if the tick is still attached, or you had one on you for more than 36 hours. If you develop a high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, or confusion, go to your nearest emergency department immediately.  

Virtual Visits Available 
If you removed the tick and have general concerns or want to discuss treatment/next steps, Emerson Urgent Care offers convenient virtual appointments. 

Step 7:  Prevent Future Tick Bites 

Tick checks should be part of your routine from early spring through late fall. To reduce your risk:  

  • Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors 
  • Tuck pants into light-colored socks 
  • Use insect repellents (DEET on skin, permethrin on clothes and gear) 
  • Check pets regularly and talk to your vet about prevention. 

Lyme and Other Illnesses 
If Lyme disease is not treated, it can cause  arthritis, nerve pain, facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), meningitis, or heart rhythm problems. Fortunately, Lyme disease is treatable, especially when caught early. 

Lyme disease is not the only concern. Ticks can also transmit anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and other illnesses. Stay alert and act fast to protect yourself and your family.

Urgent Care for Spring

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This guidance is provided by the medical team at Emerson Health Urgent Care. Learn more about our Urgent Care services.

Emerson Urgent Care

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