By Dr. Diksha Gupta, DO ABOM
Board-Certified Family Medicine & Osteopathic Medicine Physician • Family First Primary Care
At Family First Primary Care, serving families across Arlington, Clifton, Fairfax, Falls Church, Great Falls, McLean, Oakton, Tysons, and Vienna, Virginia, tick-related questions pick up every summer. We share what every Northern Virginia family needs to know about tick bites, Lyme disease symptoms and treatment, tick prevention, and when to call your doctor.
As the weather warms up and we spend more time outdoors, I often see an increase in questions about ticks, tick bites, and Lyme disease. Whether you’re hiking, gardening, attending sporting events, or simply enjoying your backyard, it’s important to understand how to protect yourself and your family during tick season.
Ticks are more than just a nuisance. They can carry bacteria, viruses, and parasites that cause illness. The good news is that with a few simple precautions and early recognition of symptoms, most tick-borne illnesses can be prevented or treated effectively.
Why Are Ticks a Concern in Northern Virginia?
Ticks are small parasites that feed on the blood of animals and humans. They are commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass, leaf litter, and even suburban yards. In our region, the blacklegged tick (commonly known as the deer tick) is responsible for spreading Lyme disease, one of the most common tick-borne illnesses in the United States.
Not every tick carries disease, and not every tick bite leads to illness. However, because tick-borne diseases can sometimes cause serious complications if left untreated, prevention and awareness are important.
What Is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick.
One common misconception is that Lyme disease develops immediately after a tick bite. How long does a tick need to be attached to transmit Lyme disease varies for each person. Generally the tick usually needs to be attached for approximately 24 to 36 hours before transmission becomes likely.
The earlier Lyme disease is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.
What Does a Tick Bite Look Like?
Many tick bites go unnoticed because they are often painless. You may discover a tick attached to your skin or notice a small red bump after the tick falls off.
A simple tick bite can cause mild redness and irritation that resolves on its own. This does not necessarily mean Lyme disease is present.
The key is monitoring the area and paying attention to symptoms that develop over the following days and weeks.
The Classic Lyme Disease Rash (Erythema Migrans)
One of the earliest signs of Lyme disease can be a rash called erythema migrans.
This rash often:
- Appears 3 to 30 days after a tick bite
- Gradually expands over several days
- May resemble a “bull’s-eye” pattern
- Is usually not painful or itchy
- Can occur anywhere on the body
While you may wonder what does a Lyme disease rash look like, it’s important to remember that not tick bite rashes don’t develop the classic bull’s-eye appearance. Some rashes are simply red and expanding. Additionally, some patients with Lyme disease never notice a rash at all. There can Lyme disease symptoms without rash as well.
Symptoms of Early Lyme Disease
In addition to a rash, early symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Chills
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
Many people describe it as feeling like they are coming down with the flu during the middle of summer.
If you develop these symptoms after spending time outdoors in tick-prone areas, it is worth contacting your healthcare provider.
What Happens If Lyme Disease Goes Untreated?
When diagnosed early, Lyme disease is typically treated successfully with antibiotics.
If treatment is delayed, the infection may spread to other parts of the body and cause:
- Severe joint pain and swelling
- Facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy)
- Nerve pain or numbness
- Heart rhythm abnormalities
- Persistent fatigue
Fortunately, most complications can be avoided through early evaluation and treatment.
Other Tick-Borne Diseases in Virginia to Know About
Lyme disease receives the most attention, but ticks can transmit other illnesses as well.
These may include:
- Anaplasmosis
- Ehrlichiosis
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever
- Babesiosis
Symptoms often overlap and may include fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, nausea, or rash.
Because these illnesses can sometimes become serious quickly, it’s important not to ignore symptoms that develop after a tick bite.
How to Prevent Tick Bites in Northern Virginia
Prevention remains the best strategy.
Dress for Protection
When spending time in wooded or grassy areas:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants
- Tuck pants into socks when hiking
- Choose light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to spot
- Wear closed-toe shoes
Use Tick Repellent
Look for insect repellents that contain:
- DEET
- Picaridin
- IR3535
The best tick repellent products will typically contain these. In addition, Permethrin-treated clothing can provide additional protection and remains effective through multiple washes.
Always follow product instructions carefully.
Stay on Trails
Ticks often wait on tall grass and brush to attach to passing animals or people.
Whenever possible:
- Walk in the center of trails
- Avoid brushing against vegetation
- Stay out of leaf piles and dense undergrowth
Protect Your Yard
You can reduce tick populations around your home by:
- Keeping grass short
- Removing leaf litter
- Creating barriers between wooded areas and play spaces
- Keeping outdoor play equipment away from brush and tall vegetation
The Importance of Tick Checks
One of the simplest and most effective prevention strategies is performing a full-body tick check after outdoor activities.
Pay close attention to:
- Scalp and hairline
- Behind the ears
- Under the arms
- Around the waist
- Behind the knees
- Between the legs
- Around the ankles
Parents should check children carefully, especially after camps, hikes, sports practices, or playground visits.
Showering within two hours of coming indoors can also help remove unattached ticks.
How to Remove a Tick Safely
If you find an attached tick:
- Use fine-tipped tweezers as a tick removal tool.
- Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull upward with steady, even pressure.
- Avoid twisting or jerking.
- Clean the area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.
Do not:
- Burn the tick
- Apply petroleum jelly
- Use nail polish
- Attempt home remedies that may increase the risk of infection
The goal is simple, complete removal.
Should You Save the Tick?
Some people choose to place the tick in a sealed container or plastic bag.
While testing the tick is not routinely recommended, having a photo or specimen may occasionally help with identification.
When Should You Call Your Doctor? Tick Bite Guidance for Northern Virginia Families
You might be wondering if you need a Lyme disease test or what to do after a tick bite. Contact your primary care doctor if:
- You develop a rash after a tick bite
- You experience fever or flu-like symptoms
- The tick was attached for an extended period
- You develop new joint pain or swelling
- You experience facial weakness or numbness
- You are unsure whether treatment is needed
In certain situations, preventive antibiotics may be considered after a high-risk tick bite. Lyme disease treatment can be important in some situations. This decision depends on factors such as the type of tick, how long it was attached, and where exposure occurred.
When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe headache
- Confusion
- Chest pain
- Fainting
- Facial paralysis
- High fever that does not improve
These symptoms are uncommon but warrant prompt evaluation.
A Final Word
Summer should be a time for enjoying the outdoors—not worrying about ticks. The vast majority of tick bites do not result in serious illness, and simple preventive measures can dramatically reduce your risk.
Wear appropriate clothing, use insect repellent, perform regular tick checks, and pay attention to symptoms that develop after outdoor activities. If something doesn’t seem right, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Early recognition and treatment are key. By staying informed and taking a few practical precautions, you can safely enjoy everything summer has to offer.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Diksha Gupta, DO ABOM | Family First Primary Care, Fairfax, Virginia
Serving Arlington, Clifton, Fairfax, Falls Church, Great Falls, McLean, Oakton, Tysons & Vienna, VA
Dr. Diksha Gupta is a Fairfax, Virginia native and a passionate healthcare provider, delighted to offer her services to the NOVA region.
Dr. Gupta’s Credentials:
- Undergraduate: George Washington University
- Master’s: Interdisciplinary Science, Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Medical School: Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Residency: Virtua Health (Chief Resident)
- Board Certifications: American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM), American Board of Obesity Medicine (ABOM)
