Lyme Disease UK have issued a warning to walkers who are said to be at a higher risk of catching the disease which can cause a lot of pain for the individual, reports Liverpool Echo.
But with Glasgow's weather warming up, more and more cases of the illness are being reported in the UK.
A lot of people are unaware of the illness and its symptoms and so Lyme Disease is often misdiagnosed or left untreated. However being diagnosed quickly and correctly is crucial in order to avoid long-term complications.
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With some symptoms overlapping with covid - such as muscle aches, fatigue and headaches - here's what Lyme Disease UK wants you to know and how to avoid getting it.
What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected ticks.
Lyme Disease UK has a detailed guide available on their website and want to help the public ‘wake up’ to how vital tick bite prevention and early intervention can be.
Natasha Metcalf, Co-founder and Chair of Lyme Disease UK, said: "We don't want people to be scared of enjoying the outdoors but rather that people go out armed with the facts and knowledge they need to protect themselves and others from Lyme disease. Early intervention is key, and getting that message out to the public is crucial."
Symptoms of Lyme disease
According to the NHS a circular or oval shape rash around a tick bite can be an early symptom of Lyme disease in some.
The rash can appear up to three months after being bitten by an infected tick but usually appears within one to four weeks.
The rash may be flat or slightly raised and can have a darker or lighter area in the centre and might gradually spread. It may also appear pink, red or purple on lighter skin whilst it can appear darker - like a bruise - on darker skin. However it's not usually hot or itchy.
Symptoms include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- A high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery
- A headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Tiredness and loss of energy
Some people with Lyme disease develop more severe symptoms months or years later which is more likely if treatment is delayed.
More severe symptoms may include:
- Pain and swelling in joints
- Nerve problems – such as pain or numbness
- Heart problems
- Trouble with memory or concentration
What is the impact of Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is a serious illness that can have a huge impact on the lives of those suffering with the condition. However, it is preventable and treatable, especially if caught early and treated immediately.
Current sufferers face a high chance of misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment because Lyme disease symptoms mimic many other conditions, such as ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, arthritis, fibromyalgia and depression.
Lyme Disease UK hopes to spread valuable knowledge amongst the public, as we collectively Wake up to Lyme.
How to prevent tick bites
Ticks can be as small as poppy seeds and so careful checking is key
Take a look at a map to see if where you live or where you’ll be visiting is considered high-risk for tick activity
It’s important to be aware that whilst some areas are considered higher risk, ticks have been found throughout the UK in urban parks and gardens, as well as in rural areas with long grass and woodland
Take effective tick repellent on outdoor trips and a tick removal tool
