Chasing shade is kind of a must-do as the weather gets warmer around here. The good news for runners in these parts, is that we’ve got miles and miles of accessible, shaded trails which can make summer running a little more tolerable if not straight-up enjoyable. The joy of running off-road does comes with its own set of challenges; some of which downright suck. Like ticks. Eww. Ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. But don’t let that keep you relegated to the sidewalks this summer. A little preparation can keep you safely in the shade.
The Tick Risk for Runners
Ticks thrive in wooded, grassy, and brushy areas. Coincidentally, those are the very same places that are well worth exploring. While North Carolina isn’t as notorious for tick-borne diseases as the Northeast, ticks are still present and can carry infections here. The risk increases in spring and summer, when ticks are most active and runners are spending more time outdoors.
Ticks usually attach to you when you brush against grass, leaves, or branches. They don’t jump or fly, but they can cling to your clothing or skin as you pass by. Once attached, they may latch on and feed for hours or even days, increasing the risk of disease transmission if the tick is infected.
Prevention Tips from the Pros
Since we’re certainly not staying out of the woods this summer, we asked Dr. Ryan Stempniak, a family practitioner and sports medicine physician with Novant Health, about playing it safe out there. Here are his top recommendations for runners:
- Stay Covered: Wear longer socks in the woods and on the trails. If you’re wearing pants, tuck your pants into your socks. Choose lighter-colored clothing and socks so you can spot ticks more easily.
- Use Repellent: The most effective repellents contain DEET. For those who prefer natural options, some essential oil-based repellents are available, though they may be less effective.
- Check Yourself: After every run, thoroughly check your legs, feet, socks, and lower body for ticks. Ticks can be very small, so look closely.
- Shower Soon After Your Run: Showering after being outdoors can help wash off unattached ticks and gives you a chance to check your skin.
What to Do If You Find a Tick
If you find a tick attached to your skin, don’t panic. Dr. Stempniak advises using fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out with steady pressure. Make sure to remove the entire tick, including the head. Do not use your fingers or try to twist the tick off.
If the tick hasn’t latched, it will likely brush or wash off. If you remove a tick, try to save it in a sealed bag or container. Different ticks can transmit different diseases, so identification can help your healthcare provider determine the best course of action.
When to See a Doctor
Dr. Stempniak says most tick bites do not result in disease, especially if the tick was attached for less than 24 hours. However, if the tick was attached for longer or if you develop symptoms such as a red rash (especially a bullseye-shaped rash), joint aches, fatigue, fever, headaches, or flu-like symptoms, contact your doctor right away.
Enjoy the Trails with Confidence
Yes, ticks are a year-round threat in North Carolina, but they’re more active in the warmer months – the very same months we spend more time in their territory. By taking a few simple precautions, like covering up, using repellent, and checking for ticks after every run, you can minimize your risk and keep enjoying the trails more and worry less about ticks.
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