What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, or very rarely by Borrelia mayonii. Getting bitten by a tick, particularly black-legged ticks, that is infected with this bacterium serves as the starting point of this disease. In the United States, Lyme disease is one of the most commonly occurring vector-borne diseases (Lyme Disease, 2022).
What are some common symptoms associated with it?
One of the first symptoms that develop is a characteristic circular-shaped rash that looks like a Bull’s eye on a dartboard on the site where the tick bites. People also develop flu-like symptoms such as running a high-grade fever, feeling hot and shivery, having fatigue and loss of energy, and may develop muscle and joint pain as well (Lyme Disease, 2021). If left untreated, the symptoms may progress into severity and may include:
• Cardiac issues
• Painful swelling in joints
• Nerve problems such as numbness and pain
• Trouble with mental clarity and concentration
How can you prevent catching Lyme disease?
Following are some measures that you can take to prevent getting bitten by the tick (Protect yourself against tick bites, 2022):
• Wear clothing that covers your body fully when you go to a place that may harbor the ticks. Make sure to tuck your trousers inside the socks. Wear a long-sleeved shirt.
• Wear light-colored clothing to easily spot the tick
• Avoid places that are likely to contain these ticks, such as grasses. And try to take clear paths.
• If you indulge in outdoor activities, then make sure to check yourself for ticks
• If you have a pet, then make sure that they are not carrying the tick
What is something to be mindful of if you do find a tick on your body?
It is of utmost importance to know that if you do spot a tick on your skin or on anyone else’s then do not just proceed to pull it out forcefully. Instead, use fine-tipped tweezers or a tick-removing tool to pull it out. And when pulling it out, make sure to grip it as close to the skin as possible, and refrain from crushing the tick’s body, as crushing or squeezing its body will result in the bacteria spreading into the bloodstream. After removing the tick, clean the affected area with soap and water and apply an antiseptic afterward.
Consider saving the tick in a plastic bag and putting it in the freezer as your healthcare provider might need to see it.
Self-Care Tips:
There are some who experience chronic disorders after a tick bite. Eating foods with high antioxidant levels and maintaining adequate gut microbiome are two ways to help to reduce the possible long term effects. Foods that are high in antioxidants include blueberries, blackberries, beets, asparagus, avocados, collard greens, and kale will help to decrease overall inflammation. Additionally, probiotics foods to include fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. Prebiotic foods to include onions, leaks, asparagus, and garlic will certainly help.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
© Dr. Dennis D. Walker 2022. All Rights Reserved