Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause significant long-term health issues in humans. Present on every continent and positively identified in 49 of the U.S. states, the disease is found most commonly in squirrels and mice. A tick that bites an infected animal can then transfer the disease to humans. Individuals concerned about Lyme disease should be aware of its initial symptoms, long term illness warnings, and treatment protocols.
Initial Symptoms of Lyme Disease
The of Lyme disease appear within 3 to 30 days of the tick bite. The first sign is a circular rash with a distinct center that spreads and expands, while maintaining its circular appearance. This rash is called erythema migrans and appears in 70 to 80 percent of Lyme disease cases. Additional symptoms of infection can mimic the flu, including fever, body aches, and a feeling of tiredness.
Over the next few weeks, humans infected with Lyme disease may notice muscle weakness, dizziness, migraines, and stiff joints. After a few months, infected humans may notice arthritis-like symptoms, including aching or swelling joints, numbness in appendages, and localized pain.
Identifying Lyme Disease
Physician diagnosis of Lyme disease often relies on observation of physical symptoms, such as the circular rash. A patient history will be taken, including questions about possible exposure to tick bites and other symptoms the patient may have observed.
Blood tests are available that measure antibody levels to determine if the body is fighting an infection, but may not be completely reliable due to a tendency for false positives. Other tests, including urine analysis and immunofluorescent staining, are not recommended by the CDC.
Treating Lyme Disease
Antibiotics, either oral or intravenous, are typically prescribed for those individuals affected by Lyme disease. If the antibiotics are prescribed during the initial stages of infection, most humans will recover fully. When treatment is initiated after the first few weeks of infection onset, those infected may experience disease symptoms for months or even years.
Avoiding Lyme Disease
Avoid contracting Lyme disease by applying pesticides around the home to control the tick population, and using insect repellent when outside. When possible, stay clear of wooded areas. If outdoor activities include areas with tree cover, consider wearing light-colored clothing that fully covers the body (i.e., long sleeved shirts and long pants). When outdoor activities have ceased, be sure to check carefully for ticks and remove immediately if found.
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