May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month
Lyme disease is an infectious disease caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium which is primarily transmitted by tick bites. The smallest "nymph" ticks (many the size of poppy seeds) are the most concerning, as they are almost invisible to the naked eye and can leave an undetectable bite.
It’s no secret that I contracted Lyme Disease some 17 years ago and remain disabled from my medical adventure. Rather than rehash what is now a very old story, which can be read here if you wish, here are a few facts from my friends at the LymeLight Foundation that I would like to pass on to you:
One week’s antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, neural supporters, pain reducers, and supplements circa 2012.
Lyme Disease is the fastest-growing infectious disease in the United States
Untreated Lyme can spread from mother to fetus
The Center for Disease Control counts at least 476,000 new cases a year
The infamous bulls-eye rash happens in less than half of the cases - do not count on its absence for your safety!!
Current testing is unreliable and often provides a false negative result
Your insurance company can be your second-greatest adversary when it comes to treatment
Symptoms of Lyme Disease:
Severe fatigue and exhaustion
Joint pain, swelling, and stiffness
Neurological impairment, inability to concentrate, memory loss, vision changes
Difficulties with speech and writing
Seizures, poor balance, migraine headaches
Cardiac issues
Before Going Into Nature:
Wear light-colored clothes so ticks can be seen, long pants, and long-sleeved shirts
Us tick repellent: DEET, lemon eucalyptus, and rose geranium oils also work
Permethrin may be used on clothing and gear
Avoid tall grasses
On returning from Nature:
Tick check yourself, your companions and your pets
Focus on dark moist areas like the scalp and creases of the skin
Remove tick using a tick key or sharp tweezers if bitten. If you don't have tweezers, use protective gloves. Pull straight up and away from the skin.
IMPORTANT: Save the tick in a plastic bag & contact Tick Report for tick testing.
Of greatest importance, do not delay or ignore symptoms! Early intervention enhances the possibility of complete recovery. In 2007 I went to 5 different doctors who got it wrong, telling me there was no Lyme Disease in California. By the time I received a correct diagnosis from a Lyme-literate doctor it was too late! My current disability is the result. Take no chances as a simple round of inexpensive antibiotics can assure your safety.
Invisible International is committed to alleviating the suffering caused by invisible illnesses, including Lyme disease, long COVID, myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue, environmental illness, depression, and more, through education, research, and community empowerment.
Bay Area Lyme Foundation whose mission is to make Lyme Disease easy to diagnose and simple to cure.
LymeLight whose mission is to provide grants to enable eligible children and young adults with Lyme disease to receive proper treatment and medication as well as raising awareness about Lyme disease.