If you spend time outdoors hiking, camping or even working in the yard, you could be at risk for Lyme disease.

Caused by bacteria often carried by the blacklegged tick, Lyme disease is increasing in Ohio as tick populations expand throughout the state. In 2023, more than 1,300 confirmed cases were reported in Ohio, compared to about 550 the year before.

Symptoms

The good news is that many people who are infected with Lyme disease never have symptoms, or their body fights the infection off without treatment. But for those who develop symptoms, the infection can be uncomfortable and even lead to chronic, long-term health problems.

One tell-tale symptom of Lyme disease is a distinctive rash. About 70% to 80% of people infected with Lyme disease will develop a rash within three to 30 days of being infected. It begins at the site of a tick bite and expands, often forming a bull’s-eye shape.

Additional symptoms of Lyme disease include a headache, stiff neck, aches and pains in muscles and joints, low-grade fever and chills, tiredness, poor appetite and swollen glands.

Even months after the tick bite, a person with Lyme disease can develop nervous system symptoms, such as Bell’s palsy and meningitis. Lyme disease also can cause heart rate issues or heart inflammation.

Over a period of years, Lyme disease can lead to arthritis and chronic nervous system symptoms such as numbness in the arms or legs, tingling or pain and trouble with speech, memory and concentration.

See a healthcare provider if you experience any of these symptoms and have had a recent tick bite or live in an area known for Lyme disease.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment varies depending on the stage of the disease. In the earliest stage, Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics for two to three weeks. Later stages may require four to eight weeks of antibiotics.

People most often become infected with Lyme disease after being bitten by a blacklegged tick, which is prevalent in wooded, brushy areas. Though cases of Lyme disease are reported in every month of the year in Ohio, it peaks in the summer. The greatest risk for infection in Ohio is from late spring through early summer.

The tick must be attached for more than 24 hours before transmitting the infection, so removing ticks quickly is key to preventing infection.

If you find a tick, don’t touch it with your bare hand. Use a pair of tweezers to grab it firmly by its mouth or head as close to your skin as possible. Pull up slowly and steadily without twisting until it lets go. Save the tick in a plastic bag or container so it can be identified later if needed.

Wash the bite area well with soap and water and put an antiseptic lotion or cream on the site. Call your healthcare provider to find out about follow-up care.

Avoiding Ticks

The best way to prevent Lyme disease is to prevent tick bites. People most often get tick bites when working or spending time outdoors in grassy or wooded areas where ticks are found. Pets also can bring ticks into the home.

To prevent tick bites when outdoors, use insect repellent and wear light-colored clothing, long-sleeved shirts, socks, closed-toed shoes and long pants tucked into your socks.

Shower after your outdoor activities are done for the day, and always check your body for ticks.

Looking for a Provider?

If you are looking for a primary care provider, Aultman Medical Group Primary Care has more than 80 providers ready to take care of you and your family. Many of our offices are accepting new patients – and more than likely, we have a location in your community.

Visit aultman.org/NewDoc to find a provider in your area who is accepting new patients, or call the new patient hotline at 330-433-1264 for assistance with scheduling your appointment.

Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Ohio Department of Health
The StayWell Company, LLC