While checking the news online today, I came across a heart-breaking article highlighting the impact that Lyme disease can have on people.  While that particular story is an extreme case, it really got me thinking. During the summer, Lyme disease becomes an important issue for anyone spending time outdoors.

In fact, about 20,000 Americans are reported to get Lyme disease every year. The disease has been reported in almost every state in the U.S., but more than 98% of all cases have been found in costal New England, the mid-Atlantic states, as well as Wisconsin, Minnesota and Northern California.

Now, if you’re like me, you’re probably interested in learning more about Lyme disease as well as some ways to help prevent it from occurring in the first place. Here’s the basics:

Causes.
Lyme disease is bacteria that are spread by infected ticks. However, not all ticks can carry Lyme disease.  In fact, there are only two in the U.S. that are capable of spreading the bacteria.  They are:

Deer ticks (These spread the disease in the Midwest and Atlantic states)
Western black-legged ticks (These spread the disease along the Pacific coast)

If you find a tick on you, remove it immediately. Even if a tick is infected with Lyme disease, it typically will not spread unless the tick is attached for at least 36 hours.

Symptoms.
The most recognizable symptom of Lyme disease is a red, round rash that spreads from the site of the tick bite. Additional early symptoms can include:

- Lethargy and fatigue
- Headaches
- Sore muscles and joints
- Fever

If Lyme disease goes untreated, these symptoms can become more severe, eventually leading to arthritic-like joint pain, tingling in hands, feet and back, poor memory recall, constant lack of energy and weakness or paralysis in face muscles.  If you have any of these or the above symptoms, contact your doctor right away.

Prevention.
The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to avoid tick bites. I know, this sounds easier said than done, especially if you live in an area where ticks are common (like I do!).  Luckily, there are some simple ways you can minimize your chances of a tick bite.  Try the following:

Cover your body when in grassy or wooded areas. As a tip, it is easier to spot ticks if you are wearing lighter colored clothing.

Remove brush and tall grasses from your yard. Also, by removing plants that attract deer, you can minimize the chance of deer ticks becoming a problem.

Use insect repellent containing DEET. This type of repellent does an excellent job of keeping ticks away. However, be sure to read repellent directions regarding its use on children.

Despite our best efforts, sometimes tick bites still occur. If you are out in the brush or high grasses, do a self-check in the shower.  If possible, have someone check your scalp. If a tick is found, it is important to remove it quickly. To remove a tick, use a tweezers and gently pull straight out, grasping the tick as close to the head as possible.

Hopefully with this knowledge, you can have a safe and tick-free summer!

Related Posts:
8 Fun Outdoor Summer Activities
Turn Your Garden into a Gym
Dealing with Stinging Pests

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