Deer ticks are prevalent in the Northeast, particularly in the New England region. If you're planning outdoor activities near wooded areas or grassy plains, keep an eye out for black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. As the warmer months approach, tick activity increases, so it's crucial to perform regular tick checks upon returning home. Tick repellent can also be a valuable tool during these upcoming months.
Understanding that deer ticks are the carriers of Lyme disease is crucial. Trust us, you don't want one of these unwelcome critters on you. AFC Urgent Care North Springfield is here to guide you through navigating the deer tick and Lyme disease season.
Staying Clear of Deer Ticks This Spring and Summer
Avoiding the outdoors altogether isn't practical. The majority of people will be outdoors enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. However, we must remain cautious of the potential threat posed by deer ticks and Lyme disease. Here are some helpful tips for avoiding deer ticks this Spring and Summer:
- Steer clear of tick-infested areas, such as the boundary zones between grassy plains and wooded areas (known as the "edge").
- Perform thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
- Dress appropriately and tuck pant legs into socks.
- Use a chemical repellent containing DEET, Permethrin, or Picaridin.
- Keep your lawn trimmed short.
What to Do If Bitten by a Deer Tick
After being bitten by a deer tick, the most noticeable symptoms include redness with a bullseye on the skin and a rash-like bump. However, Lyme disease symptoms can vary and often occur in stages, which may overlap. Some individuals may not exhibit symptoms in the typical early stage.
Stage 1 Symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Extreme fatigue
- Joint stiffness
- Muscle aches and pains
- Swollen lymph nodes
Stage 2 Symptoms:
- Rashes on other parts of the body
- Neck pain or stiffness
- Muscle weakness on one or both sides of the face
- Irregular heartbeats due to immune-system activity in heart tissue
- Pain spreading from the back and hips to the legs
- Pain, numbness, or weakness in the hands or feet
- Painful swelling in eye tissues or eyelids
- Pain or vision loss due to immune-system activity in eye nerves
Stage 3 Symptoms:
- Arthritis in large joints, particularly the knees, with pain, swelling, or stiffness persisting or recurring over time.
Remaining vigilant about your symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem, is crucial. Seeking medical attention is advisable.
Get Your Deer Tick Removed at AFC Urgent Care North Springfield
If you're uncomfortable removing a tick yourself, our medical staff is trained to assist and evaluate you for any tick-related diseases. Seeking assistance within 24 hours of being bitten is recommended to take prompt action. Our doors are open seven days a week, allowing for convenient walk-in visits with no appointment necessary.
For those preferring to schedule appointments, you can do so online. You can also pay your bill online with our easy to use online payment system.
