By Dr. Juleen Qandah, Emergency Physician and Health Editor, Mohawk Valley Living
Here in the Mohawk Valley, summer means sunshine, hiking, lake days—and ticks. As an ER doc, I see a flood of patients every summer worried about tick bites, rashes, and Lyme disease. So let’s set the record straight on when to worry, when to watch, and when to relax.
Found a Tick on You? Don’t Panic.
If the tick is still attached, remove it gently using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady pressure—no twisting, burning, or smothering needed. Clean the bite area and your hands with soap or rubbing alcohol. That’s it.
No need to come to the ER just because a tick bit you. Most tick bites don’t transmit Lyme. The CDC recommends watching for symptoms if the tick was attached for 36+ hours or was engorged (swollen with blood).
What About That Rash?
If you notice a red ring or “bullseye” rash (erythema migrans) within 3–30 days of a tick bite—especially if it’s larger than 2 inches—it may be an early sign of Lyme disease. That’s when you should see your primary care provider for antibiotics.
Other types of rashes, like itchy welts or bruising, are usually allergic reactions or irritation—not Lyme—and don’t require emergency care.
When It Is an Emergency
Head to the ER if you or a loved one develops:
- Facial droop
- Severe headache with neck stiffness
- High fever or confusion
- Shortness of breath or chest pain
These could indicate rare but serious complications like Lyme carditis or meningitis—or another tick-borne illness like anaplasmosis or babesiosis.
Final Word
Ticks are annoying, yes—but most bites are harmless if caught early. Stay protected with bug spray, tick checks, and common sense. And if you’re ever unsure, we’re here for you.
