Ticks are very small, spider-like creatures which can be found in woodlands or grass. Ticks attach themselves to passing animals (including humans) and bite into the skin, sucking the blood. They can carry diseases and should be removed as soon as possible. If the tick is infected, you could develop Lyme disease.
Tick bites
Dr Lynn Thomas, OStJ, BSc, MB.BS, MA, FRCPClinically reviewed: 28/04/2025
Ticks attach themselves to passing animals (including humans) and bite into the skin, sucking the blood. They can carry diseases and should be removed as soon as possible.
What is a tick bite?
What to do
- 1
Using a pair of tweezers or a tick-removal tool, grasp the tick’s head as close as you can to the skin and gently pull the head upwards.
Use a steady and even pressure.
Do not jerk the tick as this may leave parts of it embedded in the skin.
Do not burn or freeze the tick - or try to remove it with butter or petroleum jelly.
Clean the area with soap and water.
- 2
Contact your GP surgery if you have been bitten by a tick within the last three months and you have:
flu-like symptoms, such as feeling hot and shivery, headaches, aching muscles.
a round or oval shaped rash around the tick bite.
