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Lyme Disease is a tick-borne illness that is acquired by getting bitten by a tick. Deer ticks are the most common carriers of the disease. As outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy being on the trail in the woods you must take precautions because that is where you will find the little critters and that’s where they find you! Lyme disease is a non-contagious infection that can become a serious health problem. The deer tick carries a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorfer that gets transmitted to humans through the skin when the tick latches on to suck blood. They are like little hitchhikers hanging on the ends of grasses and tall weeds just waiting for a host to pass by so they can hitch a ride and get a free meal. You or your dog become the meal or any warm blooded creature that happens to be passing by such as mice, birds or deer. The first key to prevention is awareness. Always be aware that ticks are out there and that you need to do a tick check on yourself after you’ve been in the woods. To prevent ticks from being carried into your home, it is also important to thoroughly check your dog after a walk in the woods as they are much lower to the ground and tend to pick up many more ticks. Before heading out it is a good idea to wear long pants and long sleeved shirts and a hat to help deter the little buggers. They are looking for warm skin so clothing will be a deterrent but is no guarantee, hence the need to still do a body and hair check. Spraying some insect repellent that contains deet on your clothing will also help. Most infections are caused by ticks in the nymph stage as larger, older ticks are more easily seen and removed. The host will often not even feel the bite as the secretions do not cause any pain or itching as most insect bites do. There are some symptoms to be aware of in the event that you did get bitten but did not know. The classic rash that looks like a red bull’s-eye ring around what might look like a mosquito bite or other insect bite. In addition to the rash you might not be feeling so well and experiencing some joint pain or fever. Some people have serious reactions to tick bites and the swelling and pain will be obvious and can be accompanied by aching muscles as well. It is important that you seek medical attention and get a proper diagnosis because if it is indeed lyme disease you will need to be treated with antobiotics. If left untreated you will experience more serious problems often leading to paralysis, neuroligical and cardiac problems. Playing in the outdoors, hiking, camping and backpacking, requires some preparation, awareness and knowledge in order to stay safe. Little tiny things such as deer ticks have the power to ruin your life so take precautions and “Be Prepared !” |