(PRWEB) May 24, 2016
PhysicianOne Urgent Care, advocators in helping their patients lead the healthiest lives possible, updates patients on the dangers of tick bites and how to avoid being bitten this spring.
The official tick season kicks off in May across the states of Connecticut and New York.
Ticks, small spider-like insects, are known for attaching themselves to their prey while they feed off their blood. Like other similar biting insects, the tick replaces the victim’s blood with their saliva. While most ticks do not carry serious disease, the species has been linked to Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Colorado Tick Fever, and even tick paralysis.
Typical reactions kick in within one to three days following the bite and can include high fever, body aches, and other flu-like symptoms. A rash or sore at the bite site can also denote a possible infection.
Simple education and adherence to best practices can help avoid tick bites. To start, PhysicianOne Urgent Care advocates understanding the environments where ticks thrive. While patients are not likely to be bitten on the beach, they increase their risk by heading into the woods for a hike or in areas with tall grass. Those headed outdoors and into tick-infested areas during the warmer spring and summer months are encouraged to follow the following tips to avoid being bitten:
- Wear an insect repellent that is age-appropriate, especially for children
- Cover as much of your skin as possible; lightweight, light-colored garments are best
- Wear gloves when working with firewood or other lumber
- Carefully check clothes, scalp, and pet fur for the presence of ticks after being in danger areas
PhysicianOne Urgent Care advises that, should a patient experience a tick bite, they remove the entire tick immediately. This is most easily done by using tweezers to extract the entire bug. Do not smother the tick in Vaseline, alcohol, or gasoline as myths may say, as this may lead to an increased risk of skin inflammation or further injury. It is also unwise and dangerous to attempt to remove the tick with flame or matches. Once the tick is removed, PhysicianOne Urgent Care advocates placing the tick into a small resealable storage bag and freezing it in case future tests or identification is needed. Patients should also wash their hands well after removing the tick.
For support during tick season, PhysicianOne Urgent Care offers tick removal, on-site lab services, and rash assessment at all locations. For the location nearest you, visit http://www.PhysicianOneUrgentCare.com.
About PhysicianOne Urgent Care
Established in 2008, PhysicianOne Urgent Care was the first in the market to be accredited and certified by the Urgent Care Association of America. PhysicianOne Urgent Care takes great pride in helping make families lives a bit easier. PhysicianOne Urgent Care’s high quality medical care is a cost effective alternative to the Emergency Room as well as a convenient alternative to primary care physicians during off or peak hours. PhysicianOne Urgent Care provides walk-in treatment for a wide array of illnesses and injuries. On-site services include x-ray, wound stitching, and lab services.
All locations are open 365 days a year. Experienced providers are on-site at all times. Most insurances are accepted. For more information, please visit http://www.PhysicianOneUrgentCare.com.