What is Lyme Disease, and how is it spread?

Lyme disease is from the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted to humans by bites of infected black-legged ticks. It is the usually reported tick-borne illness in the United States, with most cases happening in the Northeastern and Midwestern states. Lyme disease affects several body systems and cause many symptoms. It can be challenging to diagnose in some cases because its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses.

No vaccine is available to prevent Lyme disease, and it can be challenging to treat, especially if it is not caught early. The best method in preventing Lyme disease is to keep away from tick bites by using tick repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and avoiding tick-infested areas.

What are the symptoms of Lyme Disease?

1. Fever

One of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease is a fever. This can occur within a few days to weeks after being bitten by an infected tick. The fever may accompany other symptoms such as chills, sweats, and body aches.

2. Rash

Another symptom of Lyme disease is a rash that typically appears 3-30 days after you were bitten by an infected tick. The rash is often in the shape of a bull’s-eye and may be accompanied by itching, redness, and swelling. In some cases, the rash may spread to other body parts.

3. Headache

A headache is another common symptom of Lyme disease. The headache may be mild or severe and is often accompanied by neck stiffness.

4. Fatigue

Fatigue is another symptom that can occur with Lyme disease. This fatigue can be debilitating and may last for weeks or months. Other signs that can occur with fatigue include brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and memory problems.

5. Joint pain

Joint pain is another symptom that can occur with Lyme disease. The joint pain is often described as achy and may worsen with movement. The pain may also shift from one joint to another and can last for weeks or months.

How are Lyme Disease symptoms relieved?

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy may also be recommended to help treat Lyme disease. Physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles and joints that have been affected by the infection. Physical therapy can also help to improve the range of motion and reduce pain.

Rest

It is essential to get plenty of rest when you are suffering from Lyme disease. This will help your body to heal and recover from the infection. It is best to avoid strenuous activity until you are feeling better.

Alternative options to supporting Lyme Disease symptoms

Herbal Supplements

Herbal supplements are another option that some people may choose to treat Lyme disease. There is evidence that certain herbs, such as echinacea and goldenseal, may help boost the immune system and fight off infection. However, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements, as they can interact with other medications.

Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms similar to the beneficial bacteria that are found in the gut. Some research has shown that probiotics may help improve Lyme disease symptoms, such as fatigue and joint pain. Probiotics are generally considered safe, but it is always advisable to speak with a healthcare professional before taking them.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves thin needles that are inserted into the skin at specific areas of the body. There is research that shows that acupuncture may help reduce Lyme disease symptoms, such as pain and fatigue. However, it is vital to ensure that a qualified practitioner performs acupuncture to reduce the risk of complications.

Exercise

Exercise is another option that may help to improve symptoms of Lyme disease. Exercise can help to boost the immune system and increase energy levels. It is important to start slowly and gradually increase exercise intensity as tolerated.

WAVE 1

As an alternative and holistic option, WAVE 1 is a bioenergetic wearable delivering issue based frequencies helping to restore proper cell function and strengthen the immune system for overcoming the symptoms of Lyme disease. Wave 1 can deliver ultra-low frequency fields through sound and light. Through the help of WAVE 1, cell-signaling pathways can send the proper communications, thus affecting your energy, health, and mental sharpness.

What is the recovery process like for someone who has contracted Lyme Disease?

The recovery process of the disease can vary from person to person. Some people may recover quickly with no lasting effects, while others may experience more long-term results. The severity of the infection also plays a role in the recovery process. People who have a more severe infection may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. In general, the earlier the diagnosis is made and treatment starts, the better the prognosis.

However, some people may experience long-term effects such as fatigue, joint pain, and cognitive difficulties. These effects can often be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. It is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that all symptoms are resolved and to monitor for any new or worsening symptoms.

How can you prevent yourself from getting Lyme Disease

Before Going Outdoors

Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in moist, shaded areas with long grasses and bushes.

Cover up. Wear light-colored clothing so you can see ticks more easily. Wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, socks, and closed shoes.

Use EPA-registered repellents. Repellents help keep ticks away from your skin. Apply them to clothes and exposed skin, following the product label instructions. Do not put repellents on the skin under your clothes. The two most common types of repellents contain DEET or permethrin.

 After You Come Indoors

Examine your body for ticks after being outside. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to check your entire body for ticks. Pay close attention to your underarms, groin, and scalp.

Remove ticks promptly and correctly. Use fine-tipped tweezers in grasping the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward while being mindful of the pressure. It should be steady. Avoid crushing the tick’s body. Once the tick is removed, clean the bite area with alcohol, soap, and water.

Examine gear and pets. Ticks can attach to clothing, camping gear, and pets. To eliminate the hazards of ticks, you can place all clothes inside the dryer on high heat for a minimum of 10 minutes. Check equipment and pets for ticks before bringing them into your home.

Check your pet for ticks. Ticks can attach to pets. Check your pet’s fur thoroughly for ticks, especially in areas where the skin is thinner, such as the groin, armpits, and around the neck. If you find a tick, remove it promptly and correctly. You may also want to consult your veterinarian about tick-prevention products made specifically for animals.

Shower soon after being outdoors. This will help wash off unattached ticks and make it easier to spot attached ticks.

Resources for further information on Lyme Disease

Anyone who is concerned about Lyme disease should visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. The CDC provides detailed information about risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options. The site also includes a section on Lyme arthritis, a common complication of the disease. 

In addition, the CDC website offers educational resources for patients and healthcare providers. For more specific information about Lyme disease, the National Institutes of Health also has a website that provides an overview of the disease and links to recent research studies. 

Finally, several patient-centered websites offer support and education for people with Lyme disease. These sites include the Lyme Disease Association and the International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society.