Q: What makes tick bites so dangerous? What is the best way to prevent and/or treat tick bites?

- Amy P., Lookout Mountain, TN

Ticks can carry a number of diseases and parasites that have the potential to cause major health issues. Signs and symptoms of tick-borne disease vary from person to person, but the most common ones include fever, nausea, chills, muscle aches, headaches and rash. Different bacteria and viruses transmitted by the tick’s bite may even cause seizures, confusion, paralysis and death if left untreated. Multiple diseases can be contracted from a single tick bite. If you suspect that you or someone else is suffering from a tick-borne disease, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

The best way to prevent tick-borne illness is to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Ticks are parasites that wait in low-lying plants or brush to hitch a ride on – and feed on - passing animals or people. It’s a good idea to avoid tick habitats, such as wooded areas, seashore locations and clusters of dense vegetation.

If you hike or engage in outdoor activities, try to stay in clearings or walk in the middle of paths. If possible, you should wear long-sleeved tops, pants and boots to walk in the woods. Tucking your shirt into your pants and your pants into your boots can help to minimize the chances that a tick will be able to find exposed skin. Wear light-colored clothing that will allow you to easily spot a tick crawling on you. Wearing tick-repellent may also lessen your chances of getting bitten.

Be sure to check yourself for ticks frequently, and have someone else check you as well. Make sure to examine your ears, scalp and joints in particular, as these areas tend to be favorite points of attachment for ticks. If you have pets that go outside, make sure you check them regularly too, as animals can bring ticks indoors with them.

Ticks should be removed very carefully, making sure to pull the tick straight out of the skin. Use fine-point tweezers if you have them, and make sure to sanitize both tweezers and bite site after the tick is removed. If possible, save the tick in a container with the victim’s name, address and date. Keep an eye on the bite site - if a rash develops or if someone displays other symptoms of tick-borne disease, seek medical assistance immediately.