Don't let ticks take a bite out of your summer fun
Ticks are tiny arachnids that can cause big problems if they go unchecked. These pesky critters can carry diseases like Lyme disease; something that’s been in the news quite a bit over the last few years. So if you're planning on spending any time outdoors this summer, it's important to know how to check for ticks and what to do if you find one. Here are four simple steps for tick safety.
Step 1: Cover up
The best way to prevent ticks from getting on your skin is to cover up with long-sleeved shirts, pants, and hats. Tucking your pants into your socks can also help prevent ticks from crawling up your legs. If you're going to be spending a lot of time in wooded areas, you might also consider treating your clothes with permethrin, a tick-repellent chemical, or purchasing a spray. We like to use AtlanTick.
Step 2: Check yourself (and your pets)
After spending time outdoors, be sure to do a thorough tick check on yourself, and your pets. Ticks like to hide in warm, moist areas like the armpits, groin, and scalp, so be sure to check those areas carefully. Use a mirror to check hard-to-see areas like your back and behind your ears. Having a shower and washing your clothes can also help to remove any ticks you may have missed.
Step 3: Remove ticks promptly
If you find a tick, don't panic! It’s also best to not throw it across the living room, because you will not sleep again until you find it many days later! Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible. Then, pull upward with steady, even pressure. Don't twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. Once the tick is removed, clean the bite area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. Don’t forget to dispose of them properly, and report these incidents, where applicable.
Step 4: Monitor for symptoms
If you've been bitten by a tick, keep an eye out for symptoms like fever, headache, muscle aches, and a rash. These could be signs of Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness. If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to see a healthcare provider as soon as possible.
Ticks can be a real nuisance, but with a little knowledge and preparation, you can reduce your risk of bites and enjoy all the great activities that summer has to offer. Remember to cover up, do thorough tick checks, remove ticks promptly, and monitor for symptoms if you've been bitten. By following these simple steps, you can stay safe and healthy all season long.
At the end of the day, tick prevention is just one small part of enjoying the outdoors safely. So whether you're hiking, camping, or just going for a stroll in the park, be sure to take other safety measures to protect yourself from those pesky little critters.
As always, if you have any concerns about tick bites or tick-borne illnesses, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider. But with a little care and caution, you can make the most of your time outdoors and create memories that will last a lifetime.
