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Lyme Disease
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What Is It?
What Are the Symptoms?
How Is It Diagnosed?
Treatment Options
Who Is At Risk?
Can It Be Prevented?
Resources and Suggestions
More Information About Lyme Disease
What Is It?
Lyme (lime) disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite of an infected
tick. It may cause a number of medical conditions, including arthritis, nerve or heart
problems. Early detection can prevent more serious disease.
What Are the Symptoms?
Learn to recognize symptoms -- because ticks are very small, you are more likely to
recognize early symptoms, rather than notice the tick bite.
Early symptoms (seven to ten days):
- An illness with flu-like symptoms during spring and summer.
- A skin rash which varies in size, shape and color, but often looks like a "bull's
eye."
- Joint or muscle pain
Later symptoms (months to years):
- Arthritis, especially in knees.
- Problems with the nervous system.
- Heart problems
How Is It Diagnosed?
- If you think you have Lyme symptoms, consult your physician.
- Early treatment with antibiotics can cure and prevent more serious problems.
- It may take a doctor some time to make a diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Treatments may include antibiotics and insect repellant with DEET.
Who Is At Risk?
Both people and pets can get Lyme disease, especially if they spend time outdoors in
areas where infected ticks live.
Can It Be Prevented?
Avoid tick bites to prevent Lyme disease:
- Be knowledgeable about the risk of tick bites in your area.
- Wear protective clothing outdoors.
- Check yourself, children and pets for ticks.
- Clear away brushy or grassy areas around the home.
- Use a tick repellent on clothing.
More
Information About Lyme Disease
Resources and Suggestions
We Also Suggest:
- Consult your physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Your local chapter can provide a listing of physicians who specialize in arthritis-related conditions.
- Learn to manage your condition -- get involved! Exciting events, volunteer activities and programs, such as the Arthritis Self-Help Course, support groups and exercise programs (consult your physician). Use the Chapter Locator to find activities near you.
- Arthritis Today magazine -- Search for more information or visit Your Arthritis Store to subscribe on-line!
- Your Arthritis Store -- books, newsletters, Arthritis Foundation membership, videos and more.
- Arthritis Today Drug Guide
- Alternative and Complementary Therapies
- Arthritis Today Supplement Guide
- Frequently asked questions about arthritis, treatments and coping skills.
- Arthritis in children, teens and young adults. Check out the information for parents and teachers, too!
- How to Care for Yourself
- Remember, you're not alone! Connect with other people on Message Boards.
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