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The weather is finally nice, but you're not the only one wanting to get out of hibernation. Ticks are active from April to October, which means they are potentially there to ruin all your outdoor activities.
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showed that health services reported more cases of tick-borne diseases in 2017 than in any other year. This increase is due to an increase in tick populations, which have increased over the last 20 years.
Although ticks are found in the suburbs and cities, they are widespread in moist, leafy woodlands.
Here's what you need to know about detecting tick signs:
Where are the ticks?
In general, ticks like areas that retain moisture, says Mark Wooten, a specialist in Lyme disease and tick expert at the University of Toledo. This means that you will need to pay close attention to tall grass, heaps of leaves and wood. Be careful in areas with large populations of mice because ticks feed on critters. Deer ticks, known to spread Lyme disease, hide in trees and shrubs to attach easily to passing animals. You will want to be particularly careful when rubbing trees, as ticks catch on your clothes and hide in crevices behind your knees or underarms.
What are ticks like?
The size and color of the ticks vary depending on the age and the species, so there is not only one characteristic to know. However, ticks can be confused with moles when they are attached to your skin. You should always inspect your body for ticks after your entry and pay special attention to the back of your knees, armpits or groins, as these areas are popular hiding places. Wooten recommends throwing clothes in the laundry (heat kills ticks) and jumping in the shower after outdoor activities.
What do tick eggs look like?
Nate Nieto, an assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University, explains that tick eggs look like chicken eggs but are more transparent and measure only half a millimeter. They are arranged in large packages reminiscent of those of a spider's nest. However, your chances of actually finding tick eggs are extremely rare, says Nieto. Instead, inspect your body for signs of ticks or bites.
What do tick bites look like?
Most people do not even know if a tick is feeding on blood, says Wooten. Indeed, ticks have developed pharmacological agents in saliva that reduce pain.
"These ticks have evolved, they do not want to hurt you, they want you to be healthy," he says.
Always carry a check mark when coming from outside. Typically, ticks do not transmit Lyme disease unless they have been attached to their host for about two days, which means you want to detect them immediately, the CDC says. Keep in mind that they are very small and can be confused with freckles. Young deer ticks, called nymphs, are responsible for most cases of Lyme disease and are about the size of a poppy seed. If possible, ask a friend or family member for help.
About 70% of people who have been bitten by ticks infected with Lyme disease may develop a rash. In some cases, the stain takes the shape of an ox eye, so consult your doctor if abnormal spots develop.
Judita Juknele / EyeEmGetty Images
What are the signs of tick-borne diseases?
Not everyone will have symptoms, but fever, chills, headaches, fatigue, and muscle aches may indicate that you have been attacked by a tick-borne disease.
"You hate being paranoid, but you can take some precautions," he says. "If you get sick, then you should think about it.Is it a cold summer or is there an outside chance that I can have Lyme disease?"
The symptoms of Lyme disease are very similar to those of the flu and will usually occur before the onset of a rash. If you have spent time in places prone to ticks, if you feel sick and if you notice skin abnormalities, it is worth it to go to the doctor.
Of course, wearing the right clothes can help you avoid ticks. Experts recommend long-sleeved shirts and pants hidden in your socks. Yes, you will look ridiculous, but it is better to have a tick bite. Opt for light-colored items to easily spot insects that cling to clothing and invest in DEET.
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