Lyme disease is no longer limited to specific areas, as it is an endemic spreading quickly due to issues like climate change and urban expansion. When combined with a lack of awareness, a dangerous situation arises. Knowing the symptoms and steps to prevention are the best ways to protect yourself and those you love. If exposed, seek the Lyme-literate specialists at Lyme Mexico Clinic to increase chances of recovery.
Lyme disease has been around for decades, but there is a growing concern that cannot be ignored. Today, more people are at risk for this tick-borne illness than ever before. No longer is it confined to specific areas that are known to be hotspots, but it is spreading across many regions.
The problem?
Most populations do not even realize that the risk is growing in areas where Lyme disease has always been nothing more than an afterthought. Unless, of course, they or someone they love has been impacted personally. And this lack of awareness can be dangerous.
Here is a closer look at what you need to know about the Lyme disease endemic areas so that you can be proactive and reduce your risk of infection.
What is a Lyme Disease Endemic Area?
An ‘endemic area’ is one where the disease is established and the bacteria are being transmitted to those locally. For Lyme disease, this means that it is becoming increasingly common for individuals and animals in a specific area to be exposed to the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. Unlike a one-time outbreak, an endemic is a consistent, ongoing situation.
International health organizations have documented a trend that should not be ignored—endemic areas are expanding and new areas of high risk are emerging. We have treated many patients who have Lyme disease and contracted it in places they never would have expected it.
In other words, ticks no longer pay attention to traditional maps or borders.
What Causes Endemic Areas to Expand?
Pinpointing the exact cause of the expansion is incredibly challenging. Most believe there isn’t even one specific reason, but rather several key factors that make it happen. Here’s a closer look at what may be behind this shift.
Climate Change
Naturally, ticks prefer mild, humid environments. Temperatures that are warm and winters that are short are perfect for ticks to survive and reproduce without fail. Climate change has decreased the number of places that were once known to be too cold. This has allowed ticks to expand into different regions.
Changes in migration patterns should also be taken into consideration since animals can transport ticks, even across long distances. As these patterns shift, so will the tick destination.
New Construction Impacts Habitats
Communities around the world are building more, stretching into the surrounding undeveloped areas—including tick habitats. Local wildlife can carry ticks into suburban yards and surroundings, with growing tick populations soon to follow. Areas that were previously not prone to ticks may now become a new haven for them.
Lack of Awareness
Perhaps one of the biggest causes of an endemic is the lack of awareness. After all, think about it—so many people who were once living outside of a tick-prone zone now find themselves living in one. They are living life without even knowing that they are at risk for Lyme disease.
Signs of Lyme Disease: What to Look For
If you are dealing with Lyme disease or have spent much time in regions where ticks are prevalent, then you likely know all about the disease and how to spot it. Those who are not familiar? Well, they may be slow to take action, especially since many of the early symptoms are quite similar to the flu. Here’s what to look for:
- Fever or chills
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain (or swelling)
- Headaches
One distinct characteristic is a rash that looks like a bull’s eye. While not everyone will have this symptom, it will give those who do have an identifiable mark to elicit the appropriate response from medical personnel.
If caught early, Lyme disease can usually be treated successfully with a round of antibiotics. Otherwise, you may be at risk for a long-term, chronic symptoms, such as:
- Severe fatigue
- Unbearable pain
- Cognitive issues
- Sleep disturbances
- Neurological concerns
Each of these symptoms can cause a significant decline in overall quality of life.
Know How to Spot Lyme Disease
As Lyme-literate specialists, we know how to spot the condition, properly diagnose it, and create a personalized treatment plan. Many physicians, however, tend to misdiagnose the disease, resulting in delayed care. Since this commonly occurs in areas where infection is common, how much more difficult will it be for those found in new areas from the endemic? How many people will end up suffering from chronic Lyme disease?
Standard blood tests can miss an active Lyme infection, as Borrelia burgdorferi and other tick-borne pathogens are not always detected. Seek the right help.
Take Prevention Seriously
Whether you are in a traditionally known tick area or you are in a region newly impacted by the spread, taking steps to protect yourself is one of the best things you can do to avoid infection. Wear light clothing when outdoors. Use insect repellent. Visibly check yourself for ticks. And always shower after outdoor activity.
Know how to protect yourself to prevent infection—and also know how to spot the signs of Lyme disease. Act swiftly.
Take Action with Lyme Mexico Clinic
Now that Lyme disease no longer has geographical limitations, it is capable of spreading quickly, impacting more unsuspecting people around the world. With climate change, urban expansion, migration, and lack of awareness being the driving forces behind the endemic, the best way to move forward is through prevention. Unfortunately, there will be an increase in numbers.
If you or someone you love has contracted Lyme disease, it is important to seek treatment from a Lyme-literate specialist, especially if the symptoms have progressed. At Lyme Mexico Clinic, our very own Dr. Omar Morales and team can create a treatment plan that will address the root cause of your symptoms and promote healing from within.
Travel outside the country, such as outside the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, or New Zealand and find alternate treatments that will give you relief.
Want to learn more? Schedule a consultation and become a patient today.