Causes and risk factors
Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi which is carried by Tick. Ticks are parasites which feed on blood of animals or human beings. They are mostly found on tall grass, they get attach to the by passers. When a Tick infected with bacteria bite a human being the person bacteria is transmitted to the human being and the symptoms appear.
Clinical presentation:
The symptoms of lyme are divided into two stages- initial and late stage. At an early stage appearance of rash (erythema migrans) which has a bulls eye appearance is the characteristic feature. It appears 3-30 days after the infection. The rash is first seen as solid, red expanding eruption. Or it appears as a central spot of clear skin surrounded by and expanding red rash. It occurs on the entire body. Followed by it the typical flu like symptoms are seen like fever, headache, body ache and fatigue. In the later stages affection of various systems is seen. The digestive, respiratory, musculoskeletal and nervous system are affected leading to variety of symptoms like altered bowel movement, bone pain, pain in joints, shortness of breath, pain in chest, night sweats, tremors, tingling, numbness etc are seen. Apart from the generalized symptoms the mental faculty is also affected leading to confusion, loss of memory, stammering speech and difficulty in concentration. Decreased hearing, disturbed vision and sexual disturbances are the other symptoms seen. Ticks also increase the risk for other infections.
Investigations:
The diagnosis is confirmed on the basis of the symptoms narrated by the patients and physical examination carried by the doctor. Certain sets of investigations can also be advised which will aid in the confirmation of the disease. Specific antigen antibodies tests are done. Polymerase chain reaction, ELISA and western blot tests are advised .The other tests include the complete blood count, urine routine and liver enzymes. In severe cases an X-ray of chest and USG of abdomen are suggested.
Treatment:
Antibiotic medications are administered orally. In advance cases where the patient is severe ill intravenous administration of antibiotic is done. Symptomatic treatment as per the system affected needs to be done. Rest is important part of treatment. Diet should consist of adequate liquids and nutritious food. Certain preventive measure needs to adopt like use of long pants, long sleeved shirts and completely close shoes while going out in bushes or grassy areas. Use of insect repellents which contain DEET on clothes should be done. On coming back home all the clothes, shoes should be thoroughly checked for insects. In case a Tick is found then remove the Ticks carefully with the help of Tick removers.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up the disease. Taking into consideration the symptoms in holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms.
