Therapist: in case of a tick bite, it is important to act quickly, but without panic.
In case of a tick bite, it is important to act quickly, but without panic, advised the therapist at the Shota Kalandia clinic.
According to the doctor, the first step is to carefully remove the tick. It is best to use a special tweezer or thread to grasp it as close to the skin as possible. The tick should be extracted slowly, without sudden movements or squeezing, to minimize the risk of infection entering the bloodstream. If this is not possible, the specialist recommended seeking medical attention at the nearest hospital as soon as possible.
"After removing the tick, the bite area should be treated with an antiseptic — chlorhexidine, alcohol, or iodine will work. It is important not to try to drown the tick in oil or other liquids before removal — this can provoke the release of infectious agents," warned Kalandia.
The doctor added that the tick should be preserved if possible (for example, by placing it in a clean container) and sent to a laboratory for infection testing. This will help determine the need for preventive treatment in a timely manner. Additionally, the doctor recommended consulting an infectious disease specialist, even if there are no symptoms.
According to the therapist, it is also important to closely monitor the condition for several weeks after the bite. One should urgently consult a doctor if the person develops a fever, headache, or characteristic redness at the site of the bite.
"The main rule is not to ignore a tick bite, even if it seems harmless: timely and correct actions can significantly reduce health risks," assured Kalandia.
