Nature is the home to an incredibly versatile array of species, but ticks are definitely one of those that we tend to avoid at all costs.
These tiny arachnids, that are related to spiders, mites, and scorpions, are in fact parasites that survive by attaching themselves to larger animals and feeding on their blood. Humans aren’t spared either. Sadly, these insects carry harmful bacteria that can spread disease to people.
Sadly, tick-borne diseases are at an all-time high, with about 50,000 cases reported each year, and far more going unreported.
There are different types of ticks, and unfortunately, they sometimes find their way to people’s homes. The types most commonly found in homes are the black-legged tick, the dog tick, and the brown dog tick.
- Black-legged Ticks – known as deer ticks, these ticks are typically brown or black in color and have a flattened, oval-shaped body. They are commonly found in wooded areas and can transmit Lyme disease.
- Dog Ticks are larger and can range in color from brown to reddish-brown. They have a tough, shield-shaped body. Dog ticks can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
- Brown Dog Ticks are brown in color and have a slender body.
Although the tick season is between March and October, or sometimes longer, we should be wary of this insects all year round. In fact,if beaten by a tick, a person can develop symptoms even after two or three months.
The bite itself isn’t painful and can cause swelling, itchiness, blistering, and bruising. The bad thing is that ticks also carry and transmit severe diseases, most commonly Lyme disease, as well as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis.
Initially, Lyme disease develops as a circular red ‘bull’s eye’ rash around the site of a tick bite. However, not everyone gets a rash and you should also watch out for a flu-like illness with fever, headache, tiredness and general aches and pains.
The best way to prevent being bitten by a tick is to avoid tall grasses and areas where ticks thrive (such as moorlands and woodlands), especially during the warmer months.
In case you do get bitten, you should remove the tick as soon as possible in order to prevent infections.
These are some of the ways of safe removal.
- Use fine-tipped tweezers: Use clean, fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
- Pull gently: Apply steady upward pressure, being careful not to squeeze or crush the tick. Aim to remove the tick in one smooth motion without twisting or jerking. Twisting or jerking can cause the tick’s head to break off and stay inside the skin, where it can still transmit disease.
- Clean the area: After removing the tick, clean the affected area with soap and water or an antiseptic solution. Monitor the site of the bite for any signs of infection or a rash, and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
If by any chance ticks find their way into your home, take immediate action in order to prevent infestation. Most times, ticks are brought into your home in case they stick on your clothes or onto your pets.
- Isolate the area: If you have identified the presence of ticks in a specific area, keep pets and children away from that space.
- Wear protective gear: Put on gloves and a long-sleeved shirt to protect yourself from potential tick bites.
- Clean the area: Clean the area where you found the tick. If it is in bedding, wash the sheets. Inspect the area to ensure there are no more ticks that are present. Dispose of the tick by either flushing it down the toilet or sealing it in a container or ziplock bag before placing it in the trash.
My Father Expelled Me Due to Welcoming a New Baby with My Stepmother, Rapidly, Karma Delivered Its Teachings
At 21, Carla faced yet another challenge when her father asked her to leave their home to make space for his new baby. Though devastated, her loving grandparents helped her rebuild her life while uncovering family secrets that forced her to choose between independence and family ties.
Carla’s life changed drastically when her mother passed away when she was just 10. Her father remarried when she was 15 to Linda, who brought her daughter Megan into their lives. Later, they had two more children together, Jimmy and a baby girl.
When her dad first announced his marriage plans, he awkwardly told her that Linda would be good for their family. He suggested that having a new stepsister might give Carla some companionship. Initially, Linda seemed kind but kept her distance. However, over time, Carla and Megan formed a strong sisterly bond, supporting each other through tough times.
At 16, Carla got a job at a local grocery store to gain financial independence. She was eager to pay for her own clothes and school supplies. But when she turned 18, her dad surprised her with a request for $500 in rent. Although she protested, he insisted it was time for her to take on responsibilities, and she eventually agreed.
Five months ago, everything changed again. Carla’s dad and Linda told her she had to leave her room for the new baby. In shock, Carla pointed out that there were other rooms available, but her dad was firm in his decision. Feeling lost, she turned to her Aunt Lisa for help. Aunt Lisa welcomed her without hesitation and promised to confront her father about the situation.
The next day, Grandpa stepped in and had a heated discussion with Carla’s dad. Afterward, he offered her three choices: stay at home, live with him and Grandma, or find her own place with financial support from them. Though confused, Carla decided to stay with her grandparents for a while, but tensions at home continued to rise.
As things grew colder between her and her dad, Megan noticed the change and asked Carla why. Exhausted and confused, Carla couldn’t give her an answer. Eventually, she chose to move out, and Grandpa provided her with a cozy apartment and a $15,000 check to help her start fresh.
Grateful for her grandparents’ support, Carla embraced her new independence but missed her family, especially Megan and Jimmy. Her relationship with Dad and Linda diminished, and visits became rare. Seeking comfort, she turned to Aunt Lisa, who understood her feelings.
During a visit, Carla learned a shocking truth from her cousin: Grandpa had been holding Dad accountable for paying rent and returning the $15,000 gift to Carla. This revelation made her realize how much support Grandpa had provided over the years while trying to teach Dad responsibility.
Curious about the situation, Carla spoke with her grandparents and learned more about the family dynamics that led to her eviction. Wanting to clear the air, she agreed to a dinner with her dad to address their issues. Despite the tension, they both expressed their feelings and apologized.
Carla expressed her desire to mend their relationship without sacrificing her independence. With mixed emotions, she recognized her family’s struggles and vowed to find a balance. Supported by her grandparents, she felt hopeful for the future.
Determined to succeed in school and start her career, Carla aimed to make her grandparents proud. Blessed with their love and strength, she was ready to carve her own path toward a brighter future.
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