The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that nearly half a million people may be diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year in the United States. Lyme disease is caused by the Borrelia bacteria and is transmitted by a bite from a deer tick (also called the black-legged tick).
Ticks carrying this bacteria live throughout most of the country, preferring brushy, grassy, and wooded areas. It’s easy to pick up an unwanted rider when you’re out in nature, so take steps to protect yourself.
Should you suspect you’ve been infected, visit Integrative Medica in Salt Lake City. We provide innovative care for your condition, depending on the progression of your infection and its complications.
Ticks hide in tall grasses so keeping the grass around your home well trimmed discourages their presence. Create a tick barrier by surrounding flower beds and natural areas with a three-foot strip of dry bark, mulch, or gravel. It highlights your gardening skills while keeping ticks at bay.
Deer-proof fencing keeps your veggies safe while removing the risk of deer-borne visitors. Ticks also pick up Borrelia bacteria from mice, so move woodpiles and other rodent-attracting structures away from your home.
Protect yourself from attracting ticks by disguising yourself from their attention. Start with your wardrobe.
Choose fully enclosed shoes for tick-friendly areas. Wear lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and socks. Apply permethrin, a tick pesticide, to your clothing and shoes, but don’t use it on your skin.
For exposed skin, use an insect repellent containing DEET to deter ticks. Check the label and follow directions for use. Be sure that any product is safe for children under three years.
Stick to cleared trails and avoid side trips into woods or tall grasses. Ticks spend their time hidden on the ground, waiting for warm-blooded mammals like you to pass by for a convenient feed.
When you come inside from any outdoor activity in potentially tick-infested areas, shower first, checking your body and hair for these tiny hitchhikers. Ticks that haven’t latched on securely often wash away under the force of a shower stream.
They can hide under your arms, in your groin, and even in your navel. Inspect your clothing to make sure there are none in your home.
Ticks can transfer Lyme disease through a bite up to three days after they are attached. If a tick isn’t attached securely, remove it with a pair of tweezers and monitor for a rash in the area that may be a warning sign of Lyme infection. Call us for careful removal of embedded ticks.
Dogs, cats, and other pets that spend time outdoors can bring ticks indoors. Check their fur, skin, and under collars closely. Use leashes to keep them from exploring the forests or grassy meadows when you’re out. Talk to your veterinarian about pet-friendly products that prevent ticks from latching on.
Lyme disease is treatable and is easiest to treat when caught early. Contact Integrative Medica if there’s any possibility of a tick bite. Call or click to book your appointment now.
