Dr Michael Mosley has shared the early symptoms of Lyme Disease people should be watching for as cases of the illness grow at this time of year – especially when out in the countryside
Well-known broadcaster and author Dr Michael Mosley has urged people to ‘tuck your trousers into your socks’ when out and about.
The move is a precautionary measure against Lyme disease. Known for its transmission through tick bites, Lyme disease cases are on the rise as warmer weather encourages more outdoor activities. Dr Mosley: “Early signs include a spreading, circular rash (like a bull’s eye on a dartboard) typically around 14 days after you’ve been bitten, and maybe flu-like symptoms.”
Additionally, he points out that if detected quickly, Lyme disease can be successfully treated with antibiotics. The condition, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, can culminate into severe complications if left untreated or managed ineffectively, reports Bristol Live.
Neurological issues: Lyme disease can barge into the nervous framework, leading to ailments like meningitis, encephalitis, and Bell’s palsy. Intensified cases could culminate in cognitive decline, memory lapses, and irreversible nerve damage.
Joint problems: Particularly if the infection is not swiftly addressed, Lyme arthritis, causing discomfort, inflammation and swelling primarily of the knees, can develop.
Heart complications: Evolving into Lyme carditis, a rare but alarming progression, Lyme Disease can tamper with the heart, inducing irregular heartbeats, inflammation of the heart muscles and other cardiac concerns.
Eye problems: Lyme disease can result in eye inflammation like conjunctivitis, uveitis, or even optic neuritis in certain situations.
Chronic symptoms: Some people may experience ongoing issues post treatment for Lyme disease. This condition is known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS) and can include symptoms like fatigue, joint and muscle pain, and cognitive difficulties.
Skin manifestations: Apart from the distinctive bull’s-eye rash (erythema migrans), Lyme disease can trigger other skin complications such as rashes, hives, or lesions.
Rare complications: In infrequent cases, Lyme disease can lead to more serious complications affecting various organs, with conditions like liver inflammation (hepatitis), eye inflammation (uveitis), or inflammation of the brain and spinal cord membranes (meningitis).
Dr Mosley added: “The ticks that carry the bacteria that cause the disease are typically found in grassy and wooded areas. So when out walking, tuck your trousers into your socks and consider using insect repellent.”
If you suffer from the bullseye rash, it’s recommended to seek out a doctor immediately. More information is available at lymediseaseaction.org.uk.
