Tick Bite: Safe Removal and Lyme Prevention – Advice from Licensed Druggist Cristina

Advertorial – Tick season is here. Found a tick on your skin? Licensed druggist Cristina shares proven steps for safe removal and reducing Lyme disease risk.

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Cristina, licensed druggist: 'In tick season, customers frequently ask me about bites. The bite itself isn't dangerous, but quick removal is key to prevent Lyme disease transmission. Removing the tick within 24 hours keeps the risk low.'

Remove the tick correctly
'Use pointed tweezers, tick tweezers, or a tick lasso. Grasp it close to the skin without squeezing the body. Avoid alcohol or oil – these won't speed up removal and may cause the tick to regurgitate, raising infection risk.'

Disinfect thoroughly
'Pull steadily with a gentle circular motion to release the tick's mouthparts. Clean the bite site with 70% alcohol or iodine, and disinfect your tweezers too. Note the bite's location and date for reference.'

Monitor for symptoms
'Watch the area for 8 weeks. A expanding red circle (or one appearing elsewhere) means see your doctor immediately. Other signs like flu-like symptoms, sore throat, or fever also warrant a check. I always recommend consulting your doctor – some prescribe preventive antibiotics based on attachment time or multiple bites.'

Additional tips I share with customers:

After outdoor activities in greenery, check clothes and body thoroughly – focus on behind ears, groin, knees, underarms. For kids, inspect scalp, hairline, and ears.
Stick to paths, avoid brush and tall grass, and cover skin.
For extra protection, use DEET-based repellents. As a Certified Specialist in Self-Care, I guide on safe percentages for adults and children.

Got a health question?
Cristina answers one reader question monthly on topics like coughs, hay fever, lice, headaches, or more. Ask your question here>>

Who is Cristina?
Cristina Knollema-Lertora is a licensed druggist at a Certified Specialist in Self-Care drugstore – the mark for reliable OTC advice. Find nearby stores at www.erkendspecialistinzelfzorg.nl.