Ticks
Ticks are blood-feeding parasites that are often found in tall grass where they will wait to attach to a passing host. A tick will attach itself to its host by inserting its chelicerae (cutting mandibles) and hypostome (feeding tube) into the skin. The hypostome is covered with recurved teeth and serves as an anchor.
Ticks can be found in most wooded or forested regions throughout the world. They are especially common in areas where there are deer trails or human tracks.
Ticks are especially abundant near water, where warm-blooded animals come to drink, and in meadows wherever shrubs and brush provide woody surfaces and cover.
Once on the body, they move to other warm, moist areas, such as the hair, armpit and groin areas. Once firmly attached to the body, they begin to suck blood. They can cause harmless or harmful conditions.
Symptoms:
Rashes, redness, itching
Swelling at the site
Muscle/joint pain
Inflammation of the joints
Swollen lymph node
Flu-like symptoms
Fever
Seek emergency treatment for the following symptoms:
Severe headache
Chest pain
Palpitations
Difficulty in breathing
Paralysis
Treatment:
Remove the tick carefully by holding its head using a tweezer. Remove the whole tick being careful not crush the it. Put the tick into a bottle and seal this is to provide your doctor with information that may be needed later.
Use soap and water to wash the affected area and wash your hands thoroughly. Seek medical help if you are unable to remove the tick yourself.
Prevention:
When walking in woods or tall grass wear clothes and shoes that cover you fully. Keep the shirt tucked into pants and pull socks over the pants to cover feet.
Wear light-colored clothes to spot ticks easily. Spray insect repellents on your clothes. While outside, check your clothes frequently for ticks and on your return home, inspect yourself thoroughly for ticks.
Stay Prepared! Stay Alive!
Charlie
