Lyme Disease - Let's Not Get
'Rash' Here!"

It almost sounds like the name of some exotic foreign film star, doesn't it? Unfortunately it's not.

These bacteria-containing ticks are found in weeds and grasses, just waiting for some passer-by to attach to. They come in a number of sizes and may be difficult to see.

This disease was only discovered in 1975, when mothers of children in Lyme, Connecticut alerted researchers that all their children had developed Rheumatoid Arthritis.

It can affect the skin, nervous system, joints, and other organs.

So after returning from that camping or hiking trip, you would be well advised to check for the presence of these unwanted visitors. Early diagnosis is critical for the proper treatment of this condition.

Google News reports that doctors will reassess antibiotics for chronic Lyme disease. The article states:

"The Infectious Diseases Society of America has agreed to review its guidelines, which say there's no evidence long-term antibiotics can cure "chronic Lyme" disease ---- or even that such a condition exists."

This agreement settles an antitrust suit by Connecticut's attorney general over this matter. The complete story can be read here:

Doctors to reassess antibiotics for 'chronic Lyme' disease

[Top] 1) A circular Rash

The first stage of infection is a small circular rash known as erythema migrans. It may occur 2 to 4 weeks after the initial bite with a characteristic shape resembling a 'bulls-eye.'

This type of rash may be difficult to see on individuals with darker skin

It may also appear as an expanding ring of solid redness.

2) Flu Symptoms

In addition to a rash, a person may develop flu-like symptoms such as swollen lymph nodes, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. If left untreated, these symptoms may disappear on their own.

At this point, an individual may experience a general feeling of malaise and fatigue with the appearance of additional rashes in other areas.

In some people, however, the infection may spread to other parts of the body.

3) Last Stage Lymes

The last stage of this disease may occur as a result of inadequate treatment during the early stages. It may occur weeks, perhaps years after the initial bite and may include Arthritis and cognitive deterioration.

are you having arthritic symptoms and are unsure whether you have Lyme's or Arthritis? For some clarity...

There may also be inflammation of the heart muscle and motor and sensory nerve damage.

[Top] In the early stage of the disease, it may be diagnosed by looking for the classic red rash. Blood testing for the presence of Lyme antibodies is usually not necessary during the early stages, but may help your doctor obtain a diagnosis in the later stages.

These antibodies can be detected through a laboratory test known as an Elisa assay.

Your doctor may perform a differential diagnosis as he attempts to determine the cause of your condition, ruling out other illnesses that might be the culprit.

[Top] Since ticks attaching to the body transmit Lyme disease, it is important to use caution when visiting tick-infested areas. Spraying insect repellent onto exposed skin may help before visiting these areas.

Additionally, wearing long clothing may assist in protecting the skin.

Google News reports on a story on Fox News about 5 tips to avoid being bitten by a tick. They are:

• Avoid areas where there is a high concentration of ticks. This includes wooded areas and areas with high grass.
• Spray you skin and clothing with insect repellent containing 20 to 30 percent of the chemical DEET.
• You should cover up by wearing a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Be sure to tuck your pants into your socks.
• Always check for ticks after spending a lot of time outdoors.
• Last, if you find a tick, be sure to thoroughly remove it. Use tweezers and grab the tick as close to the mouth as possible.

They conclude that if you do get bitten, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.

You're more likely to develop Lyme disease if you visit various grassy and wooded areas such as the Northwest, North Central, and Northeastern parts of the US.

Regarding treatment, unfortunately there is no natural solution for this condition.

Lyme disease is usually treated with an oral antibiotic such as Doxycycline or Amoxicillin.

If the disease is advanced, your doctor may recommend treatment with an IV antibiotic for an extended period, usually from 14 to 28 days.

The FDA warns against taking an injectable compound known as Bismacine, as it contains high levels of the metal bismuth.

In a recent news story, researchers have discovered an injection of a long-acting form of the antibiotic Doxycycline protected laboratory rats from developing this disease.

The United States saw approximately 20,000 cases of Lyme disease in 2006. We trust that you were not a part of that statistic.

If only Borrelia burgdorferi really was a foreign movie star!

We'll not hold our breath on that one, however!

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