When spending time outdoors, many of us worry about Lyme disease, and for good reason: Cases reported to the CDC have more than doubled in the past 15 years. Dont let these myths get in the way of protecting yourself.
Myth #1: A bulls-eye rash is the telltale sign
Reality: Only half of the people who get Lyme diseasetransmitted by infected ticks develop a bulls-eye rash around the tick bite. And the rash doesnt always come out right away; it can take up to four weeks post-bite to appear. If you develop any kind of rash or flu-like symptoms that dont disappear after a few days, talk to your doctor. Even if theres no rash, also get checked for Lyme if youre feeling dizzy, or have tingling, neck stiffness, and aches and pains that come and go.
Myth #2: Only hikers have to worry about it
Reality: Yes, youre at risk in the woods, but you can get Lyme disease in your own backyard or anywhere tick-carrying deer and mice are. Ticks mostly hang out in tall grasses and piles of leaves, so keep your yard tidy. After spending time in possible tick territory, examine your clothes and body. Dont forget to check your scalp, neck, navel, groin, armpits and behind your knees. Remember to check pets, too.
Myth #3: Its easily diagnosed with a blood test
Reality: You can test negative even if you do have Lyme disease. Another problem: Many labs check for just one of the many strains that can cause Lyme, and there are different ways to interpret test results. Thats why a growing number of doctors will diagnose it based on symptoms, even if a test is negative. Its also why people are often misdiagnosed with arthritis and chronic fatigue syndrome. If you suspect Lyme but your doctor doesnt agree, get a second opinion. Find a specialist at LymeDiseaseAssociation.org
Myth #4: Antibiotics will cure it
Reality: A two- to four-week course of antibiotics usually gets rid of Lyme, but treatment works best if its started within a few weeks after infection. Otherwise, you can develop chronic joint pain and central nervous system problems like headaches, fatigue and memory trouble.
Did You Know?
1. Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants while gardening to reduce the risk of tick bites.
2. Found a tick? Use tweezers to pull it straight up and out.
3. Lyme disease is most prevalent in the northeast and north central states.