Thursday, April 07, 2011

Health Tips for April 7

Health Tip: Help Prevent Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is spread when a person is bitten by an infected tick. The tick initially acquires Lyme bacteria by biting an infected mouse or deer.

The ADAM Encyclopedia advises taking these precautions to help prevent the spread of Lyme disease:

  • Apply an insect repellant on all exposed skin (except your face) and clothing.
  • Dress in light clothing so ticks are easier to see.
  • Put on a long-sleeved shirt, and tuck pant cuffs into your shoes.
  • Wear a pair of tall boots, preferably made of rubber.
  • Check your skin (including your scalp) for ticks while you're outdoors, and as soon as you come inside.

Health Tip: Learn the Signs of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial illness that's transmitted by the bite of infected ticks.

Not everyone who is infected becomes sick, and not everyone has all symptoms.

But in typical cases, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says, here are common symptoms:

  • A fever.
  • Chills.
  • Feeling lethargic.
  • Muscle pain and headache.
  • A bullseye-shaped rash at the site of the bite.
  • Itching all over the body.
  • Stiffness in the neck and inflammation of the joints.
  • Unusual behavior.

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