There is nothing fun about a tick bite. Not only do they itch like crazy, but they also can bring about certain diseases.

Therefore, our team at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville wants to offer you tips on ways you can prevent tick bites, as well as what to do if you happen to get bit by one.

What Should I Do If I’m Bitten by a Tick?

When you get bitten by a tick, you usually won’t have any symptoms except for redness around the area and itching. Your first step is to carefully remove the tick by using tweezers to firmly pull upward on the tick, without squeezing it. Squeezing it runs the risk of body parts being left behind.

It is also important to seek medical attention if you think you have been bitten by a tick, because there are some cases where ticks can carry diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Ways to Prevent Tick Bites

• Avoid tick-infested areas.
• Check yourself regularly for ticks.
• Place pant legs into socks.
• Wear light-colored, protective clothing.
• Use a chemical repellent with DEET, permethrin or picaridin.

Should I Worry About Lyme Disease?

We wouldn’t say worry, but Lyme disease is definitely something you need to be aware of.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that there are more than 30,000 cases of Lyme disease diagnosed each year. Fortunately, with early detection, Lyme disease can be cured with antibiotics.

Disease Carried by Ticks

• Anaplasmosis/ehrlichiosis
• Lyme disease
• Rocky Mountain spotted fever
• Babesiosis
• Powassan virus
• Tularemia

If you are bitten by a tick and begin experiencing symptoms such as fever/chills, headache, fatigue or joint pain, stop by AFC Urgent Care Knoxville for a checkup.