How do you know if you've Lyme disease

asks rtell:
A. Lyme disease is caused by a bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi. The infection is transmitted to humans by the bite of a tick that usually lives on deer and sometimes dogs. If you are bitten by an infected tick that stays attached to your skin, bacteria can enter your bloodstream.

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Q. Do you only get it in America
A. No. You might think that because it's named after Old Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first recognised in 1975. Although Lyme disease is a common problem in the US, it's now seen as a bit of a problem over here, too - especially in areas where there are deer.

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Q. Am I at risk
A. You are if you go camping or walking in the countryside during the summer, and you leave your arms and legs bare.

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Q. If you don't see the tick, how can you tell you've been bitten
A. Ticks are tiny and difficult to see, so their bites often go unnoticed.

There will be a red lump with a scab. Between two days and four weeks after the bite, you may notice some of the following symptoms:

• A spreading circular rash at the site of the bite.
• Feeling tired.
• Flu-like chills and fever.
• Headache and joint pains.

Q. What happens if it is left untreated
A. Some people may develop dangerous complications up to two years later, and these can affect the heart, nervous system, and joints.
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Q. What should you do if you think you may have Lyme disease
A. See your GP, who will arrange for a blood test.

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Q. How is it treated
A. Prompt treatment with antibiotics usually means you make a complete recovery.

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Q. How can I avoid being bitten
A. There are a few tips to stay tick-free:

• Keep your arms and legs covered by wearing long sleeves and tucking trousers into socks.
• Sit on a mat or jacket rather than directly on the ground.
• Keep to paths and tracks and avoid walking through overgrown vegetation.
• Make occasional checks for ticks on children and dogs. Immediately remove any ticks you find.
• Before going to bed, examine your own and your children's skin for ticks.

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By Sheena Miller
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