Watch out for ticks in warmer weather

Warmer weather means people are going outside, but it’s also time for ticks.

Ticks burrow into the skin and can transmit bacteria. Symptoms of Lyme disease can include headaches, breathing issues or arthritis.

More serious complications can occur as well, like inflammation of the heart muscle, spinal cord swelling or facial paralysis.

If you find a tick, carefully remove it with tweezers.

If bitten, watch for a small red spot that may develop.

"That bacteria, which is in the saliva, starts to multiply and that causes the expanding rash beyond that initial red mark," said Dr. Dan Sullivan, MD, with Cleveland Clinic. "As that bacteria expands under our skin, the center – that initial red spot – starts to fade, so it looks a little bit like a bullseye."

Here are some tips to prevent tick bites:

• Keep the lawn mowed and hedges trimmed.
• When going into the woods, cover up exposed skin with clothing.
• Insect repellant containing DEET can also be used to protect exposed skin.
• After being in heavily-wooded areas, do a tick check.