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Experts: Lyme disease is pandemic

  • August 27, 2019

Tis the season for hiking and enjoying the great outdoors, but while you’re enjoying Mother Nature, don’t forget to protect yourself against tick bites and Lyme disease. 

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The number of people across North America and around the world contracting Lyme disease is increasing, according to Global News. Lyme used to be considered an isolated disease found in North America and parts of Europe, but it’s now found in 80 countries worldwide, the report said.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted by ticks. It’s called “the great imitator” because it mimics a number of disorders such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, chronic fatigue syndrome, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS and Alzheimer’s disease. It’s been called “the invisible illness,” because those infected can appear to be completely healthy even though they are experiencing severe symptoms. 

About 30,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention every year. However, the Lyme Disease Association estimates the number is closer to a staggering 400,000 a year, causing some experts to sound the alarm and call it a pandemic.

It usually starts with a red, round rash that resembles a bull’s-eye and progresses with symptoms such as fatigue, fever, headaches and joint and muscle pain. It can then progress to muscle spasms, loss of motor coordination, intermittent paralysis, meningitis and even heart problems. It is often misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia because it causes pain and body aches throughout the body.

Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi that the tick contracts from deer or rodents. It’s then passed on to humans after they take a walk in tall grass or a hike in the wilderness.

The best strategy against Lyme disease is to avoid being bitten by ticks and other insects. If you do hike in a wooded, grassy or tick-infested area, it’s important when you are done to shower immediately and check your entire body for ticks or tick bites. Lyme disease can usually be successfully treated if caught early, and your risk of infection is lower if you effectively remove the tick as soon as possible.

Antibiotics are normally prescribed to fight this life-threatening disease, although they are not always effective. Ongoing research conducted at Johns Hopkins School of Public Health has suggested various essential oils, including garlic, can effectively kill persistent forms of Lyme disease bacterium. In addition to essential oils, there are several other natural alternatives you can try — on their own or in concert with your pharmaceutical medications.