You've Been Removing Leeches Wrong

If you've spent any time swimming in Canadian lakes, you've probably encountered these slimy hitchhikers. And if you're like most people, your first instinct was probably to yank that leech off as fast as possible - or sprinkle salt on it.

Here's why that's a mistake, and what you should do instead.

The Wrong Way

While these methods are instinctual, memorable and likely methods you've been taught - they can result in infection or injury.

• Pulling them off forcefully – This can leave the leech's mouthparts in your skin, increasing infection risk
• Burning them with a match or lighter – You're more likely to burn yourself than remove the leech safely
• Salting them – While it works, it causes the leech to regurgitate its stomach contents into the wound (gross and potentially infectious)
• Insect repellent or alcohol – Same regurgitation problem as salt

The Right Way

The safest method is a bit less impressive, but much cleaner and lowers your risk of infection.

1. Slide your fingernail (or a credit card edge) along your skin toward where the leech's mouth is attached
2. Gently push sideways at the attachment point to break the seal
3. Flick the leech away once the mouth detaches
4. Clean the wound with soap and water – some bleeding is normal and actually helps clean the bite

Why It Even Matters

Leeches inject an anticoagulant when they bite, which is why the wound bleeds for a while after removal. By removing them gently, you minimize tissue damage, prevent the leech from regurgitating stomach contents into your wound, reduce infection risk - and avoid unnecessary pain or burns from folk remedies.

Prevention Tips for Cabin Life

• Wear long pants tucked into socks when walking through marshy areas
• Consider water shoes while in muddy lakes
• Check for leeches immediately after swimming
• Keep moving in the water – leeches prefer stationary targets
• Always check for leeches after

The Silver Lining

Here's something to ease your mind: freshwater leeches in Canada don't transmit disease. They're more of a nuisance than a danger.

And the anticoagulant they produce? It actually has potential medical applications!

So next time you find one of these prehistoric bloodsuckers attached to you, stay calm, slide it off gently, and save the salt for your margarita - or for the leech, after it's removed.

If you develop signs of infection (increased redness, warmth, pus, or red streaks), see your doctor.