What do you know about Lyme disease? Outside of certain areas of the country it’s not well understood. However, Dr. Joseph A. Annibali, M.D. writes for Amen Clinics about this disease. Learn now about how it is contracted and may be misdiagnosed for other conditions.
Lyme Disease: What You Need to Know
Lyme disease, also known as Borrelia, is carried by deer ticks. These live primarily in New England and the Midwest, as well as the east coast of the United States. Humans contract the disease by tick bites, which sometimes leaves a bite mark known as a “bulls eye” for its unique appearance.
A number of serious health problems associated with Lyme disease include:
- Fevers
- Hot/cold spells.
- Memory, recall, and judgement issues.
- Sleep issues.
- Headaches
- Irritability or moodiness.
- GI problems.
- Sensitivity to sounds and light.
- Bell’s palsy, where one side of the face droops.
According to Annibali, Lyme disease is routinely confused with other health problems. Some maladies include ADD, OCD, depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, and autism. Multiple sclerosis, Lou Gehrig’s disease, and Alzheimer’s, too, are all sometimes mistakenly diagnosed.
So how can you determine whether you or a loved one has Lyme disease? Get a blood test. However, be aware that these tests are not always reliable. You can also see a doctor familiar with the symptoms of Lyme disease. Be sure to choose someone aware of its confusing presentation.
Lyme disease is serious condition and often overlooked. Yet, there is still hope. Dr. Annabali’s, own daughter has Lyme disease. He reassure readers and notes her improving condition. Thanks to appropriate treatment.
Want to learn more about Lyme disease, it’s causes and diagnosis? Read the full article here: “Lyme Disease: Missed and Misdiagnosed.”
