Lyme disease is on the rise this year, leading to fears that cases could mount ahead of warmer weather.
The disease is typically caused by tick bites and is more common amongst people who spend a greater deal of time outdoors. Evidence suggests that the longer a tick is attached to the skin, the greater the chance of infection.
The illness is relatively rare, with exact figures hard to determine. The HSE estimates that roughly between 50 and 100 people develop the bacterial infection each year.
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The Mirror reports that cases of the unpleasant illness are on the rise this year in the UK, leading to fears of a similar outbreak in Ireland. Fortunately lyme disease is extremely treatable, especially in its early stages.
One of the tell tale signs of the illness is a visible rash. A rash can appear up to three months after the initial bite, but usually presents itself within four weeks.
The rash looks similar to a bullseye on a dartboard in appearance, with raised edges often at the sides. However, not everyone who experiences lyme disease will develop a rash at the infection point.
Other symptoms to look out for include muscle aches, feeling hot and shivery and general fatigue. Headaches often present themselves in people who have been infected with the harmful bacteria.
It's worth noting that most tick bites are harmless and will not lead to someone contracting lyme disease. People who do receive a diagnosis from a medical professional have many treatment options available to alleviate symptoms.
The disease is usually diagnosed via routine blood tests. The most common treatment option is antibiotics, although it can take months for these to come into effect in more debilitating cases of the illness.
Additionally, the HSE also recommends that people protect themselves against tick bites in the summer months to avoid the illness. Simple measures such as tucking trouser legs into socks while walking in grassy areas can help reduce the chances of a tick bite.
Equally, wearing light coloured clothing to more easily spot ticks on your person is encouraged, as well as the use of insect repellent. Further information on lyme disease is available on the HSE's website.
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