The danger of tick bites in children

We have to take special care with children and ticks especially during vacations, field trips and contact with animals. Although in most cases the consequences are mild, in children, more likely to play outdoors and get close to animals, the bites can cause infections and cause serious problems even

We have to take special care with children and ticks especially during vacations, field trips and contact with animals. Although in most cases the consequences are mild, in children, more likely to play outdoors and get close to animals, the bites can cause infections and cause serious problems even leading to paralysis of your body.

Consequences of a tick bite in children

Ticks are external parasites, arthropods of the arachnid family. They have eight legs and feed on the blood usually of animals such as dogs or cats, although of them can pass to man. It is also possible to hide in areas of vegetation such as grass or tall bushes, as well as in humid areas. That is why most of the bites occur in spring and summer, with June and July being the months of greatest activity of these parasites.

Tick bites can cause inflammation and redness of the affected area, rash, fever, weakness, headaches, joint and muscle pain and stiff neck.

In some cases, the toxin that may be contained in the saliva of some ticks may affect the nervous system causing the paralysis of children after several days have passed since the bite occurs, starting with the lower extremities and rising upwards, and can lead to respiratory complications. It is usually cured by correctly removing the parasite.

How to prevent tick bites in children

Like any other insect bite, tick bites can also be prevented by following these tips: Si - If we have pets at home, you should have them dewormed and watch them after taking them for a walk.

- When we go to field areas with tall grass, it is convenient to dress the children with long sleeves and pants.

- It is advisable to use repellents before going out into the field.

- It is convenient to check the children when they get home to see if they have been bitten by a tick. The areas of the body where they usually seek shelter are usually the armpits, the groin and the nape.

Treatment of the tick bite in children

Despite preventive measures, psychologically there is always the possibility that a tick bites our child. What can we do at that moment ?:

- It is convenient

to avoid crushing it. -

Try to remove it whole with tweezers pulling hard but without making movements to avoid getting deeper into the skin or to keep the head inside. -

Clean the area of ​​the sting and apply ice to relieve itching. - Save the tick in a bag and go to the pediatrician.