A tick bite is often harmless, but health experts say taking the right steps immediately can help reduce the risk of Lyme disease and improve the chances of early treatment if symptoms develop.

The hidden summer risk

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy walks through forests, parks and the countryside, but spending more time outdoors also increases the chance of coming into contact with ticks. For that reason, health experts recommend checking your body after returning home from areas where ticks are commonly found.

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and guidance from Boots Pharmacy, most tick bites do not result in illness. However, some ticks carry the bacteria responsible for Lyme disease, making it important to know how to respond if you discover one attached to your skin, reports Mirror.

Act quickly

Experts advise removing a tick as soon as possible using fine-tipped tweezers. Grip the tick as close to the skin as you can and pull it out slowly and steadily without twisting or crushing it. Once removed, wash the area thoroughly with soap and water and consider applying an antiseptic.

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The sooner a tick is removed, the lower the likelihood of bacteria being transmitted if the tick is infected. That is why prompt removal remains the most important piece of advice from health professionals.

Watch for symptoms

Lyme disease is usually easier to treat when diagnosed early. After a tick bite, it is important to monitor your health over the following weeks.

Common symptoms include: A red circular or oval-shaped rash around the bite, fever, fatigue, headaches, muscle or joint pain, and a stiff neck.

The rash often appears within one to four weeks, although it can develop later. Some people experience flu-like symptoms before noticing any rash.

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When to seek help

If you develop symptoms after a tick bite or after spending time in woodland, long grass or other tick-prone areas, experts recommend contacting your doctor. Early assessment and treatment can help prevent the infection from becoming more serious.

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