First Aid for
Tick Bites

First aid for tick bites is pretty simple. It's common picking up ticks, particularly if you live in the country or have pets. Most ticks do not carry disease and will not cause any harm. There is a variety of the pest called, the Western Black Legged Tick or Deer Tick that carries Lyme Disease. First aid for tick bites shows you how to remove a tick and how to recognize Lyme Disease.

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First Aid Treatment

• Use a tweezers to grasp the tick
• Pull the tick straight out to remove it. DO NOT twist, turn or rock the tick, this can cause the head to remain in the body
• DO NOT try to burn the tick or use petroleum jelly
• Once removed drown the tick in alcohol
• Wash your hands and wash the affected area
• Swab alcohol on the affected area

How to Recognize Lyme Disease

• Flu like symptoms of headache, stiff neck, fever, muscle aches, and fatigue
• About 60% of patients with a light complexion notice a unique enlarging rash days to weeks after the bite
• Patients with a dark complexion, the rash resembles a bruise
• The rash may appear within a day of the bite or as late as a month later.
• This rash may start as a small, reddish bump about half inch in diameter. It may be slightly raised or flat. It soon expands outward, often leaving a clearing (normal flesh color) in the center. It can enlarge to the size of a thumb print or cover a persons back

If you notice any of the above symptoms get medical attention immediately.

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