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.
Sharon Stone, 66, stuns in a bikini as fans notice a surprising detail that sparks buzz.
At 66, Sharon Stone continues to captivate audiences with her timeless beauty and confidence. In a recent selfie, the Hollywood icon showed off her stunning figure, and fans couldn’t stop gushing over her natural allure. But beyond her radiant appearance, eagle-eyed followers noticed a charming detail in the background that had everyone talking.
A Star Who Only Gets Better with Time
Born in Pennsylvania, Stone has long been celebrated as one of Hollywood’s most daring and dynamic actresses. Known for unforgettable roles in classics like Basic Instinct (1992) and Casino (1995), the award-winning actress has never shied away from taking risks—on-screen or in life.
Reflecting on her Basic Instinct role in Vanity Fair, she once said, “It’s about more than just a peek up my skirt, people. Wake up. Women championed that movie; men were obsessed.” She added, “I wasn’t the chosen one or the golden gal, just the sex symbol who could sometimes land the key part if she also happened to be sexy.”
But Stone’s career spans far beyond her femme fatale image. From comedies like The Muse to action-packed roles in The Quick and the Dead and Total Recall, she’s proven herself as a versatile actress. Even after nearly five decades in the spotlight, the mother of three adopted sons continues to inspire fans with her talent and tenacity.
Staying Bold and Beautiful
Stone has never been afraid to flaunt her fit physique. In June 2022, she posted a daring poolside photo to Instagram, where she posed topless, draped in a Turkish towel, and wearing a green leopard-print bikini bottom. Her caption, “Gratefully Imperfect on a Perfect Day,” resonated with fans, earning over 295,000 likes and countless compliments.
“Beautiful lady and a great example for all women,” one admirer wrote. Another chimed in, “Imperfect? No way! You’re a total goddess!”
The Secret to Her Glow
When asked about her health and fitness routine, Stone shared with Vogue that she prioritizes mindful living. Her regimen includes eating nutritious meals, getting eight hours of sleep, and staying active. “I just keep moving,” she said. “I do leg lifts and back kicks on set, and sometimes I drop down to do jackknives.”
Stone also incorporates weighted bracelets and still uses the iconic ThighMaster, made famous in the 1990s. “It’s amazing! I can use it while watching TV, and it’s super easy to pack.”
Beyond physical health, the Diabolique star credits mindfulness and meditation for her emotional well-being. A practicing Tibetan Buddhist, she emphasizes balance and self-awareness. “Pleasure is fleeting, but happiness can last much longer,” she shared, adding, “If you find yourself too wrapped up in indulgences, it might be time to take a step back.”
A Sweet Surprise
In mid-2023, Stone shared another striking photo wearing the same green bikini, this time paired with a matching top.
Fans admired her confident look and caught a glimpse of her stylish Beverly Hills home, complete with a leaf-patterned couch, a coffee table stacked with books, and a framed portrait of Marilyn Monroe.
But what truly stole the show was her French Bulldog, Bandit, peeking out from behind a pillow. The pup, adopted in 2018, blended so perfectly with the decor that some followers almost missed him.
“Your dog!” one fan exclaimed. Another joked, “Haha, did you see his expression? It’s like he’s thinking, ‘Another picture?’”
Timeless Inspiration
Whether sharing bold selfies or tender moments with her furry companion, Sharon Stone continues to be a source of inspiration at 66. Her fearless approach to life and self-love resonates with fans of all ages.
What do you think of Sharon Stone’s timeless charm? Share this story and join the conversation!
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