Lyme disease is caused by bacteria transmitted through tick bites. These ticks are found across much of the United States, especially in the Midwest and northeastern states. Lyme disease is also common in Europe and parts of Canada.
Lyme disease is a significant concern in certain western North Carolina areas and is spreading eastward faster than many doctors are aware of, according to a UNC epidemiologist.

Transmitted by deer ticks, Lyme disease was traditionally associated with the Northeast and Upper Midwest regions. However, it has been documented in North Carolina since at least 1984. Despite this, healthcare providers in the state often overlook it as a potential diagnosis when patients exhibit symptoms of the disease.

In a recent paper published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Ross M. Boyce, an assistant professor at UNC’s Division of Infectious Diseases, emphasized the importance of doctors being vigilant for Lyme disease. He stressed early detection for prompt treatment, ensuring patients have the best chance of recovery.

Dr. Boyce also highlighted advancements in Lyme disease testing, advising physicians to be aware of these improvements. Additionally, he suggested considering prophylactic antibiotic treatment for patients exhibiting Lyme disease symptoms pending test confirmation.

Dr. Boyce noted a significant increase in Lyme disease cases, particularly in western North Carolina over the past five to six years. While Lyme disease was not previously common in this area, it has become nearly epidemic. This underscores the need for healthcare providers to remain alert to Lyme disease symptoms and trends.

What is Lyme disease?

Lyme disease is the most common illness transmitted by ticks in the U.S., as per the CDC. It’s caused by bacteria carried by tick bites.

Symptoms typically begin with fever, headache, and fatigue. While many people develop a rash around the tick bite, it may not appear immediately. If not treated, the infection can spread to the joints, heart, and nervous system, leading to long-term problems like arthritis and facial paralysis.

Who’s at risk for Lyme disease?

Lyme disease occurs when three things come together: the tick, the bacteria, and humans. This usually happens when people spend time outside in areas where infected ticks live, especially starting in March or April in the South.

Outdoor activities like hunting, hiking, and camping can increase the risk because they put people close to where ticks live. However, even just being outside or having a pet that goes outdoors can lead to encounters with ticks.

A recent case study tells the story of a woman from Raleigh who fell ill after biking in her neighborhood one summer day. She felt dehydrated, tired, and developed a fever and rash on her neck. Despite tests and treatments, her health continued to decline.

Eventually, Dr. Boyce ordered tests for Lyme disease, which came back positive. Despite limited outdoor exposure, such as bike rides and gardening, she likely encountered ticks as deer often visited her property and her dog slept in her bed. After taking antibiotics, she improved within days and fully recovered in a month.

What if i find a tick on me?

If you find a tick on yourself, it’s important to remove it promptly and properly to reduce the risk of contracting Lyme disease or other tick-borne illnesses.
Here’s what you should do:

* Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible.
* Pull upward with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, as this can cause its mouthparts to break off and remain in your skin.
* Once you’ve removed the tick, clean the bite area and your hands thoroughly with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.
* Dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet, placing it in a sealed bag or container, or wrapping it tightly in tape.
* Monitor the bite area for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or a rash, over the next few weeks.

If you develop symptoms such as fever, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, or a rash after removing a tick, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly, as these could be signs of Lyme disease or another tick-borne illness. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about the tick bite and any symptoms you’re experiencing.

Can dogs spread Lyme?

Dogs cannot directly spread Lyme disease to humans. However, dogs can become infected with Lyme disease if they are bitten by an infected tick. While infected dogs cannot transmit Lyme disease to humans, they can carry infected ticks into the home or other areas where humans may be at risk of being bitten. Therefore, it’s essential to take preventive measures to protect both humans and pets from tick bites, such as using tick repellents, checking for ticks regularly, and promptly removing any ticks found on pets. Additionally, dogs that spend time outdoors in areas where ticks are prevalent should be vaccinated against Lyme disease and receive regular tick prevention treatments prescribed by a veterinarian.

How is Lyme disease treated?

Treating Lyme disease typically involves oral antibiotics like doxycycline or amoxicillin. Starting treatment early is crucial to prevent long-term complications.

In cases where symptoms suggest Lyme disease but test results are pending, a single dose of doxycycline may be beneficial.

Lyme disease testing has improved, with a CDC-approved method introduced in 2019 that’s easier to interpret and more sensitive, allowing for earlier detection. Some labs in North Carolina have already adopted this updated test.