Tick Removal & Tick Bite Treatment for Patients in Franklin, MA

As a resident of Franklin, Massachusetts, you may find yourself wanting to immerse yourself in the city's lush landscapes and alluring outdoor activities. However, outdoor activities also come with the potential concern of tick bites and tick-borne illnesses. Understanding tick bite symptoms, the associated risks, and how to avoid bites is paramount to maintaining your well-being while enjoying the outdoors. If you have been bitten by a tick, visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care for prompt and safe tick removal and tick bite treatment.

How to Tell if it’s a Tick Bite: Tick Bite Symptoms to Look Out For

Identifying a tick bite involves examining the affected area. Ticks can be tiny, and their bites are often painless. Look for the presence of a tick, which may still be attached. Ticks can vary in size and color, ranging from as small as a poppy seed to the size of a pencil eraser.

‍

The symptoms of a tick bite can vary. In many cases, a tick bite might not cause noticeable symptoms immediately. However, some individuals may experience:

• Redness and itching – The site of the tick bite may become inflamed.
• Swelling – A tick bite can lead to localized swelling around the affected area.
• Rash – In some instances, a rash might develop, resembling a small red spot or a bull's-eye pattern, especially in the case of certain tick-borne illnesses.

What to Do if You’ve Been Bitten by a Tick

If you’ve been bitten by a tick and it’s still attached to your body, take the following steps:

• Remove the tick promptly – Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it as close to the skin's surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, ensuring not to twist or jerk the tick, which could cause its mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. If you need help, reach a provider right away via our 24/7 telehealth platform and they will walk you through proper removal.
• Clean the affected area – Clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and warm water.
• Save the tick – If possible, save the tick in a sealed bag or container. This can assist healthcare professionals in identification and may be relevant if symptoms develop.
• Monitor for symptoms – Keep a close eye on the bite area and your overall health. If you develop symptoms like fever, headache, muscle or joint aches, or a rash, seek medical attention promptly.

‍

If you aren’t comfortable removing the tick yourself, visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care for tick removal and tick bite treatment—we’ll be happy to help. Remember that removing a tick within the first 24 hours after being bitten can significantly lower your chances of contracting Lyme disease, so take action quickly.

Lyme Disease Symptoms

If left untreated, Lyme disease can worsen over time and eventually damage your heart, nerves, joints, and other bodily systems. Early symptoms of the disease can include:

• A bulls-eye rash around the bite site
• Fever
• Chills
• Achiness
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes

‍

If you suspect that you have developed Lyme disease, visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care as soon as possible. Prompt treatment can help protect your long-term health and prevent the condition from worsening.

How to Avoid Tick Bites

Naturally, the best way to avoid contracting Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses is to avoid getting bitten by ticks in the first place. Here are several tips to help you do just that:

• Wear protective clothing – When in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves, long pants, and tuck your pants into your socks to prevent ticks from reaching your skin. Wearing light-colored clothing can help you spot dark ticks more easily.
• Use repellants – Liberally apply insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or other EPA-approved ingredients to exposed skin and your clothing before venturing outdoors. Treat your pets regularly with veterinarian-recommended tick prevention medication.
• Perform regular tick checks – After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body and clothing for ticks. Check your children and pets as well, and pay special attention to areas like the hairline, underarms, and behind the knees.
• Stay in the middle of trails – Steer clear of tall grasses and overhanging branches, and stay in the center of trails and paths to avoid brushing against vegetation.

Visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care Today for Tick Removal & Tick Bite Treatment

If you've been bitten by a tick or have concerns about tick-related illnesses, don't hesitate to visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care in Franklin. Our experienced medical professionals are here to provide prompt and expert care, offering thorough evaluations and guidance tailored to your situation. Your well-being is our top priority. Book a visit or walk in today, and let us help you stay ahead of tick-related health concerns. We also offer 24/7 virtual visits if you are more comfortable speaking with a provider from home.