Tick Bites: Should I Be Worried?

Tick bites may seem minor, but they can often cause itching, redness, or even allergic reactions. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, you should be cautious of these tiny creatures.

In some cases, tick bites can cause more than just discomfort. They can trigger allergic reactions or transmit serious diseases such as Lyme disease.

Understanding Ticks and Where They Thrive

Ticks are small, spider-like creatures that feed on the blood of birds, mammals, and humans. They are tiny, measuring about 1 mm to 1 cm, with six or eight legs depending on the species.

They usually live in humid, grassy environments, such as forests, meadows, gardens, or grassy areas around homes.

When attached to humans, ticks prefer warm and moist areas, such as:

• The armpits or groin
• Scalp and behind the ears
• Backs of the knees
• Around the waist
• Inside the navel

Types of Ticks

There are hundreds of tick species, and about 60 of them can cause infections in humans.

1. Ixodes scapularis (Deer Tick)

The deer tick, or Ixodes scapularis, is known to transmit various diseases to humans, including Lyme disease. In its nymph stage, this tick carries Borrelia burgdorferi, the bacteria that cause Lyme disease.

Because nymphs are extremely small, they often go unnoticed. Ticks usually need to stay attached for more than 36 hours to transmit infection.

Deer ticks have a two-year life cycle and can also be found on deer and other wild animals.

A bite from Ixodes scapularis may cause joint pain, stiff neck, fatigue, or heart palpitations. Due to their small size, they’re often unnoticed until symptoms appear several days later.

2. Pediculus humanus var. capitis (Head Lice)

If your scalp itches constantly, even without dandruff or other visible skin issues, head lice might be the cause!

Pediculus humanus capitis are small insects that live on the scalp and feed on human blood. When they bite, they release saliva to prevent blood from clotting. This triggers intense itching and irritation.

Itching typically begins 2–6 weeks after the first infestation but may appear within hours. Head lice infestation (pediculosis) can also cause dermatitis, bacterial infections, or mild anemia.

3. Pthirus pubis (Pubic Lice)

Commonly known as crab lice, these parasites cling to pubic hair and are transmitted through sexual contact or by sharing contaminated items.

They can cause severe itching, eyelid inflammation, conjunctivitis, or skin boils.

4. Cimex lectularius (Bed Bugs)

If you wake up with itchy, red bumps, bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) might be the culprit.

These insects hide in mattresses, sofas, furniture cracks, and fabric folds, becoming active at night to feed on human blood.

Though bed bug bites don’t transmit serious diseases, they can cause itching, redness, and mild swelling. Continuous scratching may lead to irritation or infection.

Watch for Signs of Infection After a Tick Bite

Most tick bites cause only mild itching and redness. However, some ticks can transmit bacteria that cause serious infections such as Lyme disease.

That’s why it’s important to treat bites properly and monitor symptoms.

After a tick bite:

• Remove the tick carefully with tweezers (avoid squeezing it to prevent bacteria from entering the skin).
• Clean the bite area with soap and running water.
• Avoid scratching to prevent irritation and secondary infection.

Monitor the bite area for several days after removal. See a doctor immediately if you notice:

• Fever, chills, or muscle aches
• A circular rash resembling a bull’s-eye
• Redness spreading from the bite area
• Unexplained fatigue or joint pain

If the bite becomes irritated or develops a wound due to scratching, you can use wund+™ Wound Spray to help prevent infection and promote natural healing.

How to Prevent Tick Bites

You can reduce your risk of tick bites with these simple precautions, especially during outdoor activities:

• Wear long sleeves and pants.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
• Avoid sitting directly on grass or damp ground.
• Check your entire body after outdoor activities, including the scalp, behind the ears, and body folds.
• Shower immediately after returning home.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Signs of infection, such as fever or muscle pain
• A rash resembling erythema migrans
• Persistent discomfort that doesn’t improve after several days

Doctors may prescribe antihistamines to relieve itching or antibiotics if bacterial infection is suspected.

Most tick bites are harmless, but you should remain cautious — especially if you develop unusual skin reactions or flu-like symptoms afterwards.

Simple preventive measures and awareness of early infection signs can help you avoid more serious complications.

References

Healthline. Accessed in 2025. Tick Bites: Identification, Symptoms, and Treatment Options.

Mayo Clinic. Accessed in 2025. Tick Bites: First Aid.

NHS Inform. Accessed in 2025. Tick Bites.

Unair. Accessed in 2025. Infeksi Parasit Kutu Kepala yang Bisa Berisiko Infeksi dan Anemia.