Spring is here and many of us are itching to get outside and enjoy the nice weather, especially with this quarantine! With the return to warmer outdoor activities (and still maintaining at least 6 feet of distance), it is important to keep in mind the dangers of ticks and Lyme Disease. May is National Lyme Disease Awareness Month so what better time to spread some information on what Lyme Disease is and how to prevent it.
What is Lyme Disease:
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that enters a human host by way of blacklegged tick bite. The blacklegged tick is tiny and can be difficult to find when attached to a person or animal. Because the tick is so small, many people do not even notice when they have been bit.
Signs and Symptoms:
A rash shaped like a bull’s eye is one of the most characteristic symptoms of Lyme; however, the estimates of people who develop a rash range widely. Other symptoms include:
- Arrhythmias (palpitations or irregular heart beat)
- Chills
- Facial drooping
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headaches
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle and joint pain
- Shooting pain/numbness/tingling in the hands and feet
- Stiffness
- Weakness
Ways to Prevent Lyme Disease:
- Limit skin exposed by wearing long pants, long sleeves, and shoes.
- Wear light colored clothing to make it easier to see ticks.
- Walk in the middle of trails to avoid tall grass.
- Use tick repellent spray on skin and clothes.
- Do check ticks immediately and 3 days following outdoor activity.
- If you find a tick, remove it carefully and save it.
- Don’t forget about your furry friends! Ask your veterinarian about protection.
Physical Therapy:
If someone is diagnosed with Lyme, physical therapy can be beneficial with the fatigue and joint/muscle pain. Our manual techniques and individualized exercise program will assist in decreasing pain, improving symptoms, and getting you back to activities you love!
