Lyme disease is a serious disease that can result in long-term joint pain and arthritis. It is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. If left untreated, the infection can progress to the nervous system and the heart. This is why it is important to diagnose it early.
The bacteria can be transferred to humans through the bite of infected ticks. There are several species of ticks that can carry the disease. One of them is the western black-legged tick. Another is the Ixodes pacificus. These are the most common vectors of Lyme disease. However, there are others that are not known to transmit the infection.
When an infected tick bites the skin, it begins the infectious cycle. Once the tick has finished feeding on the host, it molts into a nymph. Nymphs are small, but they are still capable of spreading the infection. They attach to vegetation and small mammals, such as deer. During this stage of the tick’s life, they feed on blood. Eventually, they pupate and attach to the human host.
Lyme disease is one of the most common vector-borne diseases in the United States. It can be easily prevented by taking precautions. In addition to avoiding infected areas, people can also protect themselves from the disease by using insect repellent.
A person infected with Lyme disease can develop a rash at the site of the bite. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, headache, aches and pains in muscles and joints. Other symptoms may also occur. Some symptoms are similar to those of other diseases, such as the flu. However, some people experience a more severe form of the disease.
The bacteria can be treated by antibiotics. These medications are used to kill the bacteria, and can be administered by a doctor. Many experts recommend that the first treatment for tick-borne diseases be a short course of antibiotics. Antibiotics can be effective in treating the initial stages of the infection, but they cannot prevent it from developing into a chronic disease.
Besides causing a rash, the bacterium can cause a number of other symptoms. If you have been bitten by an infected tick, seek medical attention immediately. You can also prevent the disease by wearing insect repellent and removing any ticks that have attached to your skin.
Treatment of Lyme disease involves the use of antibiotics, which can be taken by mouth or through the skin. Although the bacteria can be effectively killed, prolonged antibiotic therapy can lead to side effects. While Lyme is usually not fatal, the infection can cause significant damage to the heart, joints, and brain.
The most common symptoms of Lyme disease are a rash, headache, fever, fatigue, and aches and pains in the muscles and joints. However, there are many other symptoms, including redness, swelling, swollen glands, and joint pain. Symptoms can be difficult to diagnose. People should always seek medical advice when they suspect they have Lyme, because the disease is a serious health concern.
