Ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can carry serious diseases that affect both humans and pets. Even if you’ve taken steps to keep ticks out of your yard, it’s still important to know how to identify a tick bite and recognize the signs of a potential infection. Early detection can make all the difference.
Where Ticks Tend to Bite
Ticks often latch on in warm, hidden areas such as:
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The armpits
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Around the groin
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Along the hairline or scalp
If you’ve spent time outdoors—especially in wooded or grassy areas—do a full-body check. A tick can remain attached for up to 10 days, but most disease transmission occurs if it’s attached for more than 24 hours. The sooner you find and remove it, the better.
Common Tick Bite Symptoms
Most tick bites are painless and go unnoticed unless you have an allergic reaction. Mild symptoms may include:
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Redness or swelling around the bite
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Itching or a burning sensation
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Small blisters
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Mild pain at the bite site
Severe allergic reactions can lead to difficulty breathing, though this is rare.
Signs of Tick-Borne Illness
If the tick was carrying a disease, symptoms can show up days or even weeks later. Watch for:
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Expanding redness or rash (especially a bullseye pattern)
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Full-body rash
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Fever and chills
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Headache or nausea
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Stiff neck
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Fatigue or weakness
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Muscle or joint pain
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Swollen lymph nodes
These could be signs of illnesses such as:
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Lyme disease
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Rocky Mountain spotted fever
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Ehrlichiosis
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Tularemia
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Colorado tick fever
What to Do if You’re Bitten
If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it carefully with tweezers—grasp as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out. Clean the area with soap and water, and monitor for symptoms over the next several weeks. If you start feeling unwell or develop a rash, contact your doctor immediately.
Need Extra Protection? We’ve Got You Covered
At Mister Sprayman Pest Control, we understand the risks ticks pose—especially here in the Central Valley. Our targeted tick control treatments are designed to reduce tick populations and protect your outdoor spaces year-round.
Concerned about ticks? Contact Mister Sprayman Pest Control today to schedule your free consultation. Let’s help you enjoy your yard without the worry.
