How to prepare for a video visit about Tick Bite - Triage

Audience: adult

If you have a tick bite, preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the best advice. During the visit, you will discuss when and where the tick bite happened, any symptoms you have, and how you removed the tick. The provider may guide you on signs to watch for that could mean infection or other problems. Most tick bites do not cause serious illness, but some can transmit diseases. Telemedicine can help decide if you need further care or testing. Make sure you have good lighting and a way to show the bite area clearly. Keep track of any new symptoms after the visit and follow the provider's advice. Remember, if you develop severe symptoms or signs of infection, seek in-person care promptly.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) or chills after a tick bite – seek emergency care immediately.
• Redness that spreads or a rash that looks like a bull's eye around the bite – contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Severe headache, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or facial drooping after a tick bite – get emergency medical help without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing the tick bite and risk of infection based on history and visible signs.
• Guiding proper tick removal techniques if tick is still attached.
• Advising on symptoms to watch for and when to seek in-person care.
• Providing education about tick-borne diseases and prevention measures.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physically removing an embedded tick.
• Performing laboratory tests or physical examinations.
• Treating severe allergic reactions or neurological symptoms.
• Providing emergency care for severe symptoms or complications.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about the tick bite, including when and where it happened. They may ask about symptoms like rash, fever, or pain. You might be asked to show the bite area on camera. The provider will help decide if you need tests or treatment and give advice on what symptoms to watch for.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before your visit, find a quiet, well-lit space. Have a way to show the bite area clearly, such as using your phone or computer camera. Write down details about the bite, including when you noticed it and how you removed the tick. Also, note any symptoms you have experienced.

Signs to Watch For After a Tick Bite

Watch for redness or swelling around the bite, fever, chills, muscle aches, or a spreading rash. Some tick bites can cause serious infections that need prompt treatment. If you notice any of these signs, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for Tick Bites

Telemedicine can help assess your risk, guide you on tick removal, and advise if you need testing or in-person care. However, it cannot perform physical exams, remove embedded ticks, or provide immediate emergency treatment. In some cases, you may be advised to see a healthcare provider in person.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the advice given by your healthcare provider. Monitor your symptoms closely and keep notes of any changes. If new symptoms develop or existing ones worsen, seek in-person care promptly. Keep your follow-up appointments if recommended.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area for your video visit.
• Have your device charged and ready with a good internet connection.
• Prepare to show the bite area clearly on camera.
• Write down when and where you noticed the tick bite.
• Note any symptoms you have experienced, such as fever or rash.
• Have a list of any medications or allergies ready to share.
• Prepare questions you want to ask your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on monitoring symptoms.
• Watch for any new or worsening signs such as rash, fever, or swelling.
• Keep notes of any changes in your condition.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or emergency symptoms develop.
• Attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Practice tick prevention to reduce future risk.

FAQs

How soon should I have a video visit after a tick bite?

It is best to have a video visit as soon as possible if you are concerned about a tick bite, especially if you notice symptoms like rash or fever. Early evaluation can help guide care and reduce risks.

Can a tick bite cause serious illness?

Yes, some ticks can transmit infections such as Lyme disease or other illnesses. However, not all tick bites lead to illness. Monitoring symptoms and seeking care if they develop is important.

How do I remove a tick properly?

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or crushing the tick. Clean the area with soap and water after removal.

What symptoms should prompt me to seek emergency care?

High fever, spreading redness or rash, severe headache, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, or facial drooping after a tick bite require immediate medical attention.

Can I send a photo of the tick bite instead of a video visit?

While photos can be helpful, a video visit allows the healthcare provider to ask questions and guide you in real time. If a video visit is not possible, sending clear photos may be an alternative.

Sources

1. Tickborne Diseases of the United States: A Reference Manual for Health Care Providers — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Tick Bites — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Lyme Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Ticks and Tickborne Diseases — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is educational and not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.