Tick Bites on Humans: Identification and First Steps

Tick bites are often painless, so people find the tick or a small red spot days later.

The short answer

A tick bite may look like a small red bump, sometimes with a darker centre, and often does not itch. Remove the tick promptly and safely with fine tweezers, clean the area and wash your hands. Note the date and watch for fever, rash, headache, body aches or swelling over the next weeks. See a doctor if symptoms appear or the tick was attached for a long time.

Identification

• Small red spot or bump, often painless.
• Tick may still be attached.
• Common on scalp, behind ears, armpits, groin and behind knees.

First steps

1. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick near the skin.
2. Pull steadily upward without twisting.
3. Clean the area with soap and water.
4. Wash your hands and keep the tick in a sealed container if possible.

Watch for

• Fever, chills or fatigue.
• Rash or spreading redness.
• Headache, body aches or joint pain.
• Swelling at the bite.

When to call a professional

See a doctor if you develop symptoms after a tick bite. Call a pest professional if ticks are in the home.

Frequently asked questions

Do all ticks carry disease?

No, but some do.

Should I save the tick?

It can help the doctor.

How long before symptoms?

Days to weeks.

Can I put ointment on it?

Clean only and ask a pharmacist or doctor.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on tick and flea control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full tick and flea control guide for Bangalore.