Getting bitten by a tick is never a fun experience, but these tiny parasites are more than just annoying. Ticks in Los Angeles, California are potentially very dangerous, so knowing what to do if you’ve been bitten is vital.
Luckily, not all tick bites will lead to serious issues, but since ticks can transmit diseases like Lyme disease, it doesn’t hurt to be careful.
Ticks in the area have eight legs and oval-shaped bodies, and they are arachnids that are related to spiders and scorpions. In Los Angeles, two of the most frequent tick species are the American dog tick and the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick.
American dog ticks are brown with grey markings and often use dogs or humans as hosts. They are known vectors of Rocky Mountain spotted fever. On the other hand, the black-legged tick has a reddish-brown abdomen and black legs and can transmit Lyme disease.
If A Tick Bites You: What To Do Next
While some pests bite or sting quickly and then run or fly away, ticks are different. They latch onto a host after waiting in long grasses or other plants, and they embed their heads into the skin in order to get a blood meal.
If you see a tick attached to you, follow these steps to remove it:
- Get a pair of fine-tipped tweezers and gently grab the tick getting as close to the skin as you can.
- Start to pull using an upward motion and firm pressure. Be careful not to twist the tick or pull too hard.
- Once the tick has been removed, make sure to wash your hands and the bite area using soap and water or a product like rubbing alcohol.
- Lastly, it’s a good idea to keep the tick in a sealed bag in case you notice concerning symptoms and need it to show a doctor.
Should You Seek Medical Attention For A Tick Bite?
While the majority of ticks aren’t going to cause you to become ill, you should look out for any concerning signs after being bitten. Keep an eye on the area of the bite, especially for the first couple of weeks. If you see redness, swelling, or a bullseye rash, talk to a healthcare professional right away.
It’s also a good idea to keep track of where you were bitten and where the tick might have been picked up. This can be useful for a medical professional to diagnose the problem. If you have symptoms such as nausea, fever, or muscle aches following a tick bite, be sure to let your doctor know.
How Can You Keep Ticks Away From Your Yard?
When spending time outdoors, you can help avoid tick bites by staying on trails and avoiding dense vegetation. Also, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants. However, if you’re looking to keep ticks away from your Los Angeles property, the easiest way to do so is with help from A Step Above Pest Control & Termite.
Our trained technicians will assess your property and work with you to find a residential pest control option that fits your needs. We offer peace of mind from dangerous pests such as ticks and more. Find out more by giving us a call today.