THINK spring and the health hazard that likely jumps to the forefront of your mind is hay fever.
And while this time of the year can signal pollen bombs aplenty, health chiefs have warned of another, more serious risk – a virus that left untreated can lead to .
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged people to “protect themselves” from tick-borne infections like this .
Several well-known celebs have fallen victim to the bacterial infection, including, , , , and .
And it's not just US stars that have been hit – in the UK, comedian Miranda Hart revealed she'd been left bedbound and struggling for years after a Lyme disease diagnosis.
The UKHSA warns ticks “hang out” in grassy, wooded areas and are most active in the months April to July, when we spend the most time outside.
While not all ticks in carry the that causes Lyme disease, the infection can trigger a wide range of symptoms, from joint pain to memory problems, if it's not treated quickly.
Earlier this month the UKHSA said on : “During the spring time everyone wants to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air in the great outdoors, but don't forget that ticks often hang out in grassy, wooded areas too.
“Stay safe, #BeTickAware, and learn simple ways to protect yourself.”
It also issued guidance detailing what to do if you're .
It states:
- Remove ticks as soon as you find them
- Using a tick removal device or a pair of tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as you can and pull firmly upwards
- Clean the bite area with soap and water
- Look out for a spreading, bullseye rash – one of the most common symptoms of Lyme disease
- If you become unwell, call your GP or 111
How to spot Lyme disease
Most people are unaware about the threat of ticks to their long term well being, said bite prevention expert and CEO of Incognito, Howard Carter.
But getting a correct diagnosis for Lyme disease is critical as it needs treating early with .
Lyme disease that goes untreated for months or years may be harder to treat this way.
If this is the case, it's still worth speaking to your doctor, as they may be able to help refer you for support and other services that can be helpful.
Howard said: “It can become a chronic and debilitating illness if left untreated.
“So regardless of your destination, home or aboard; make sure that you consider the risks of ticks before you pack your bags.”
Many people with early symptoms of Lyme disease develop a around a tick bite.
Most rashes appear within the first four weeks and usually last for several weeks.
However, this rash can appear up to three months after being bitten by a tick, warned Howard.
He explained: “The rash is circular in nature and is often described as having a similar appearance to a bullseye on a dartboard or target board.”
Sometimes the rash might not appear…
The bullseye rash appears in about 70-80 per cent of Lyme disease cases.
While it's a common symptom, it's important to remember that not everyone with Lyme disease will develop the rash.
Other signs that can appear, either instead of or as well as a rash, include flu-like symptoms, such as a fever, headaches, muscles aches and neck pain.
Dr Deborah Lee, of Dr Fox Online Pharmacy, said weeks or months after becoming infected with Lyme disease a person may have neurological symptoms, cardiovascular issues, and eye problems.
She said: “Neurological symptoms include (facial paralysis) and/or associated with neck stiffness.
“Cardiovascular problems include heart inflammation leading to , pericarditis and . These cause , palpitations, and feeling unwell.
“And eye problems, such as conjunctivitis, uveitis and optic neuritis, resulting in a gritty feeling or painful eye or eyes, and blurred vision.”
Months after a Lyme disease infection, tingling in the arms and legs, difficulty concentrating and poor short-term memory may occur.
Dr Lee added: “Lyme disease can also cause , and behavioural problems.
“It also affects large joints such as the knee. 60 per cent of those with untreated Lyme disease going on to develop , with joint pain, redness, swelling and tenderness of affected joints.”
Areas of the UK to be extra alert
There are areas of the UK known to harbour infected ticks, according to Dr Sanjay Mehta, GP at The London General Practice.
He advised: “These areas include the Lake District, the , the North York Moors,and the Scottish Highlands.”
If you do see ticks on your skin, you don't necessarily get transmission for up to four hours, adds Dr Mehta, so if you can remove them that's ideal.
He added: “If you are going to any of these areas, there are also a few simple things you can do to limit the risk.
“Try to keep to paths in grassy, wooded areas, and keep away from long grass and vegetation.
“It sounds obvious, but shower on your return – often ticks fall off – and check yourself for them too.
“Wear insect repellent, long T-shirts, and long trousers if possible.”
