Posted on May 16, 2008 in Latest News
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria known as Borrelia Burgdoferi. The ailment is progressive as the bacteria attacks systematically. This bacterium is generally transmitted by deer tick. It begins with symptoms resembling the flu with a “bull’s eye” rash. It results in arthritis and in extreme cases effects the heart and the nervous system of the infected person.
The majority of cases occur in United States itself. It is prevalent in the coastal region of the northeast region, the Pacific Northwest and the areas surrounding the great lakes.
Causes-
The bacteria Borrelia BurgDoferi causes it, through the deer ticks. These ticks are extremely small and they exist in wooded areas, grasslands, and bushes near seashores and in yards too. The larger ones are reddish and black in color and survive on the blood. They fix themselves to the host and suck their blood.
People who come outdoors are more subjected to the risk of Lyme disease. They can contract it while indulging in a number of outdoor activities like, fishing, hiking, camping, and gardening etc.
Symptoms-
It develops and progresses in three stages. In the first stage the person who is attacked by it shows flu like symptoms and with “bull eye “rash. The rash develops at the effected area and steadily expands. The rash may be often mistaken for eczema or sunburn. The rash may be itchy and can occur in various parts of the body.
In the second stage the bacteria travels the bloodstream and spreads throughout the body. It may lead to arthritis and inflammation in the eye. The heart and the nervous system also get affected. The third stage occurs months after the infection. In this stage the central nervous system, musculoskeletal and the cardiovascular system gets affected. It may result in blockage in the heart, memory loss, nerve damages, inflammation in the brain and the spinal cord, pain and inflammation in the eye, pain in the joints, swelling and arthritis.
Diagnosis-
Diagnosis is done on the symptoms and history of the patient. Laboratory tests linked with the enzyme are performed on the blood sample. This is done to identify the bacteria and antibodies related to the bacteria. The results could be positive and could be treated successfully on the infected area. The ticks can also be tested for any kind of bacteria.
Treatment-
The early stage of the disease can be treated with course of oral antibiotics for 3-4 weeks. In the advanced cases penicillin for more than 4 weeks is used. It is followed by additional treatment. Pregnant women should take extra care and if infected should seek the medical help immediately. There are chances that the fetus might also get infected.
Prevention-
One can prevent themselves by avoiding going to the places that have high grasslands. While going out apply cream that is insect repellent. It should be applied on the exposed skin area. Spray permethrin on clothes as these kills ticks when comes in contact. Try to keep the body covered by wearing long sleeved clothes and boots. And finally once coming back to the home do not forget to take a warm shower. Examine areas of the body like the knee, fingers, toes, navel and neck. The clothes should be removed and washed immediately.
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