Lyme disease is a serious tick-borne health threat to Long Island residents, with the East End logging some of the highest infection rates in the country. The area has a massive population of black-legged (deer) ticks and of those more than half carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.
Due to increasingly mild winters and other factors that lengthen tick season, 2024 looks to be another year with a record-breaking number of Lyme disease cases. Every resident should be able to recognize the signs of tick bites and the symptoms of Lyme, so the disease does not progress to a point where it becomes difficult to treat.
How Do You Identify a Tick Bite?
A tick bite mark often appears as a small red spot that expands to roughly the size of a dime. In rare cases, some individuals with tick sensitivities have more severe reactions.
Unless a tick is still attached, it may be difficult to tell a tick bite from other types of bites or stings. This is why it is important to know the early symptoms of Lyme disease. The most obvious sign is a distinctive bullseye rash at the site of the bite – although it is possible to contract Lyme disease and not have the rash. Other Lyme disease symptoms include fatigue, joint and muscle pain, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.
Is Lyme Disease Curable?
Lyme disease treatment is highly effective… especially when administered early. Treatment consists of antibiotics like amoxicillin, cefuroxime axetil, or doxycycline. The type of antibiotic and length of treatment depends on the patient’s symptoms, age, and overall health.
Can the Body Fight Off Lyme Disease on Its Own?
Some individuals can clear a Lyme disease infection without requiring treatment, but it is ill-advised to forgo the standard course of antibiotics. The risks of avoiding treatment are far too great and can result in long-term health consequences.
How Long Can You Have Lyme Disease Without Knowing?
Yes, it is possible to have Lyme disease without knowing it. Some individuals are completely asymptomatic and never know they were infected. Others may have serious, even debilitating symptoms that are misdiagnosed or are attributed to another condition.
This underscores the importance of Lyme disease testing. If you suspect you have been exposed to Lyme disease, your doctor will order a blood test to check for the presence of certain antibodies.
Twin Forks® is Your Long Island Pest Specialist
We cannot overstress the importance of keeping your home and property tick-free to protect your family from Lyme disease and other tickborne illnesses. Twin Forks Pest Control® has more than 20 years of locating and eradicating pests in and around Long Island homes and businesses. Call us today for a free estimate.
