08 Nov Debunking Lyme Disease Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction
Own a dog? Then your vet must have shared a thing or two about the risks of ticks and even warned you about Lyme disease.
But is your furry friend only at risk of this bacterial infection? You’re wrong if you think so. Humans can also get Lyme disease if a black-legged tick carrying the borrelia bacteria bites them.
Just recently, the comedian and actress Miranda Hart opened up about how she struggled with chronic fatigue syndrome after she was diagnosed with Lyme disease.
Many other famous people say they have been struck by this tick-borne bacterial infection. Those include Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Yolanda Hadid and her daughter, model Bella Hadid, comic Amy Schumer, actor Ben Stiller, and singer Justin Bieber.
As high-profile names share their struggles, awareness of Lyme is spreading fast. But so are the myths. So, let’s separate the facts from the fiction surrounding this disease.
Myth #1: Lyme Disease Is Only a Problem in the Northeast
The Northeast does see a lot of Lyme disease cases, and that is mainly because it has a high population of black-legged ticks. But it is not confined to New England.
Lyme-carrying ticks can be found across much of the United States, especially in the upper Midwest and along the West Coast. In 2022, the largest number of Lyme disease cases were reported in the Middle Atlantic region—New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and New York.
There has also been a rapid surge in the number of cases in the northern New England states of New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, reports Mount Sinai.
So, why the misconception? Part of it comes down to awareness—doctors in the Northeast are more used to spotting it, which can lead to better diagnosis rates. Meanwhile, in other areas, this bacterial infection might be misdiagnosed or underreported, which is why it flies under the radar.
Myth #2: Lyme Disease is Easy to Diagnose
Unfortunately, diagnosing Lyme disease isn’t always straightforward. A large number of cases are misdiagnosed, especially in children, notes renowned Lyme disease doctor Kenneth A. Bock, M.D.
According to Bock Integrative Medicine, tick-borne infections can be caused by a variety of bacterial species. Therefore, their progression rarely follows a predictable pattern.
Early symptoms often mimic those of other illnesses, like the flu. Moreover, the tell-tale rash doesn’t always appear. Blood tests can help. But they’re not reliable in the early stages because they detect antibodies, which can take weeks to develop.
So, if you get tested within the first few weeks of infection, there’s a decent chance the test could come back negative even if you have Lyme disease.
Later on, when the infection becomes more established, the results are accurate. The delay can complicate treatment, however. That is why doctors often rely on a combination of symptoms, patient history, and test results to diagnose Lyme disease.
Myth #3: Lyme Disease Always Comes with a Bull’s-Eye Rash
The bullseye rash, also known as erythema migrans, is a well-known sign of Lyme disease. Not everyone gets it, however.
An estimated 1 in 6 people with Lyme disease do not develop the tell-tale rash. A lot of people assume that if they don’t see a red bullseye pattern on their skin, they are safe. But this is a huge misconception.
Lyme disease can still be present without a rash and often brings other early symptoms like fever, fatigue, and muscle aches.
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to ticks and experience these symptoms, see a doctor—even in the absence of a rash. Lyme disease is manageable when caught early, so don’t let the lack of a bull’s-eye mark keep you from getting the care you need.
Myth #4: You Can Catch Lyme Disease from Your Pets
Many people worry that they can catch Lyme disease directly from their pets. Dogs and cats get Lyme disease but they can’t directly transmit it to you, says the CDC.
Lyme disease is specifically transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks. That is to say, your beloved four-legged friend can bring ticks into your home, which could increase your risk of getting bitten.
Protecting your pets from ticks can also help reduce your exposure. And for that, you must use veterinary-recommended tick repellents. It’s also a good idea to check them for ticks after every outing.
And if your pet is showing Lyme disease symptoms—such as fever, lethargy, or swollen joints—get it checked by a vet. It might be suffering from bacterial infection.
The takeaway? Lyme disease is a serious illness, but it is also preventable. Understanding the facts can help you protect yourself and your loved ones. Simple measures like insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved shirts can reduce your risk.
Don’t let the myths scare you away from nature, however. Just be aware, take precautions, and seek help early if you think you’ve been exposed.
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Last Updated on November 8, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD