Tick Removal
Finding a Tick
Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers:
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Ensure you use clean, fine-tipped tweezers for this delicate task.
Remove Steadily:
- Gently pull the tick upward with steady, even pressure.
- Avoid twisting or jerking, as this could cause the tick’s mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin.
- If mouth-parts break off, use clean tweezers to remove them. If you can’t remove them, leave them alone and let the skin heal.
Clean the Area:
- After successfully removing the tick, clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly.
- You can use rubbing alcohol, iodine soap, or soap and water for cleaning.
Dispose Properly:
- If the tick is still alive, submerge it in alcohol, seal it in a bag or container, wrap it tightly with tape, or flush it down the toilet.
- Never crush a tick with your fingers, as this could release harmful fluids.
Avoid Old Wives Tales:
- Some folklore remedies suggest using nail polish or petroleum jelly on ticks or applying heat to make them detach. It’s best to stick to the steps mentioned above for safe and efficient tick removal.
Monitoring for Symptoms
- Fever or chills
- Aches and pains, such as headaches, fatigue, muscle aches, or joint pain
- Rash
These symptoms may indicate a more serious issue like Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness that requires medical evaluation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I remove a tick safely?
- Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
- Pull the tick upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking.
- If the tick’s mouth-parts break off, use clean tweezers to remove them. If you can’t, leave them alone and let the skin heal.
- After removing the tick, clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly with rubbing alcohol, iodine soap, or soap and water.
- Dispose of the tick properly, but never crush it with your fingers.
Are old wives tales like nail polish or petroleum jelly effective for tick removal?
What should I do if I experience symptoms after a tick bite?
What diseases can ticks transmit to humans?
Can ticks transmit diseases if they are not removed promptly?
Are there any precautions to take to avoid tick bites?
- Using insect repellent
- Avoiding tick-prone areas
- Wearing protective clothing
Are there any special considerations for pregnant women or individuals living with HIV when dealing with tick bites?
What should I do if I've had a severe reaction to a tick skin test in the past?
What's the importance of disposing of ticks properly?
How can I reach Midwest Express Clinic for assistance with tick-related concerns?
Tick removal is available at these locations:
Illinois
Aurora
Blue Island
Bolingbrook
Bourbonnais
Burbank
Calumet Park
Carol Stream
Chicago Ridge (coming soon)
Cicero
Elmhurst on Butterfield
Elmhurst on York Street (coming soon)
Lombard
Matteson
Melrose Park
Norridge
Northbrook
Richton Park
River Forest
Skokie
Tinley Park on Harlem
Tinley Park on LaGrange
Westmont (coming soon)
Wheaton (coming soon)
Willowbrook