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| From Kinga Vereczkey-Porter |
Lyme disease is caused by bacteria found in the stomach of deer tick. The condition is not contagious. It is acquired through the bite of an infected tick, which permits bacteria to enter and infect the body.
Lyme disease starts with an expanding red rash accompanied by flu-like symptoms. If left untreated, the illness can progress and cause abnormalities in the circulatory and nervous systems. Its more advanced stage is characterized by impaired motor and sensory nerves, and swelling joints similar to arthritis. Rheumatologists like Dr. Kinga Vereczkey-Porter can help patients suffering from the joint disorders caused by Lyme disease.
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| From Kinga Vereczkey-Porter |
The illness is identified through the characteristic red rash it causes. In some cases though, doctors have to depend on the patient’s medical history, especially when no rash has developed. A patient may also be tested for the presence of Lyme antibodies, but the procedure is not considered very accurate. Currently, more precise tests to diagnose the disease are being developed.
Treatment of Lyme disease varies depending on how far the condition has progressed. For early stages, oral antibiotics are typically sufficient, but advanced cases may require intravenously administered medication. Experts suggest avoiding tick-infested places, and applying insect repellant to minimize tick bites. A visit to the doctor is also ideal once an early symptom is identified.
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| From Kinga Vereczkey-Porter |
Dr. Kinga Vereczkey-Porter practices internal medicine and rheumatology in North Carolina. Visit her Twitter page for more updates.
