Lyme Disease: Don't Let a Tick Bite Ruin Your Summer

Summer in South Jersey means spending more time outside, whether you're at the beach, on the trails, in the backyard or cheering from the sidelines. It also means tick season.

Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in the United States, but knowing what to look for can help you catch it early, when treatment is most effective.

Know the signs

Not every tick bite leads to Lyme disease, and not everyone develops the classic "bull's-eye" rash. That's why it's important to know the other symptoms, too.

Symptoms may include:

• Fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle and joint aches
• Swollen lymph nodes

When diagnosed early, Lyme disease is typically treated successfully with antibiotics. Left untreated, however, it can spread and lead to more serious problems involving the joints, heart and nervous system. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t wait to contact your healthcare provider. 

Prevention starts before you head outside

Whether you're hiking, gardening, walking the dog or watching a soccer match, a few simple habits can help reduce your risk.

• Wear long sleeves and long pants when possible.  
• Use an EPA-registered insect repellent.  
• Stay on marked trails and avoid tall grass and brush.  
• Check yourself, your children and your pets for ticks when you come inside.  
• Shower within two hours of coming inside to help wash off unattached ticks.

Found a tick? Act quickly.

Don't panic. Most tick bites don't result in Lyme disease, but it's important to remove the tick as soon as possible. Using fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as you can and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Then clean the bite area with soap and water or rubbing alcohol.

A newer option allows you to test the tick itself for the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. While that information may be helpful, it can't tell you whether you've been infected or replace an evaluation by a healthcare provider. If you develop symptoms, notice a rash or have concerns after a tick bite, contact your healthcare provider. Early treatment is the best way to prevent complications.

A quick tick check only takes a few minutes, but it could make all the difference. Make it part of your routine after spending time outdoors and enjoy everything summer in South Jersey has to offer. 

If you're concerned about a rash or symptoms, utilize our Urgent Care locations in the area.