There are some facts about Lyme disease that may alarm. For example, anyone can get the disease! No one is immune to the sometimes overwhelming, and often times difficult to diagnose the disease. So what exactly is and how it gets?
Lyme disease is a disease caused by bacteria Borrellia burgdorferi. If the name of the bacteria is not frightening enough, the means of contracting the disease sounds like a new science fiction movie plot. It is transmitted by an insect called Ixodes scapularis. The most common name? A small creature called a tick! More specifically, the deer tick. The first known cases of the disease were discovered near the town of Lyme, Connecticut. The name stuck and the disease known as Lyme disease.
Unfortunately, the disease has been found in all states and not merely the northeastern regions, where they first discovered. Any where you’ll find an environment conducive to tick the risk is present. Warm summer months are the most common time contract this painful disease.
Lyme disease symptoms include but are not limited to, a circular red rash that occurs near the bite of ticks. This used to be the sign told us to seek to indicate the onset of the disease. Unfortunately, it was discovered that not all those who have contracted the disease has always had the circular rash.
Other symptoms are fever, headache, neck stiffness, and fatigue. Muscle and joint pain may also be present. These symptoms may last several weeks. If left untreated, other complications may develop. Meningitis, facial palsy, heart problems and arthritis are some of the complications that can occur.
Prevention is the best treatment. Although antibiotics are used as medical treatment, treatment for Lyme disease is often delayed because early symptoms often mirror other less serious conditions. Only after the disease has had the opportunity to develop easy to diagnose.
When camping or hiking in areas where ticks are likely to take precautions, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and high socks with your pants legs into socks hidden. It may not be a great form, but will help keep ticks away from your skin. Light clothing will also make it easier to spot any ticks that may decide to hitch a ride for you. Insect repellents may offer some protection too.
Depending on where you live, Lyme disease can occur any time of year. Taking proper precautions against tick infestation and become familiar with the resources to cure the disease will become your best defense.
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Tags: Bacteria Borrellia burgdorferi, Disease, Lyme Disease, Lyme disease symptoms, Painful disease, treatment
