LYME DISEASE
My last post was like a sneak-peak into this particular post. In this post, I would be dissecting everything you should know about Lyme Disease. Read carefully, so you don't miss an info because it's info that enables a man to fly.
How did the name Lyme disease came to be? What is the history?
The name "Lyme disease" originates from the town of Old Lyme, Connecticut, where the disease was first identified in 1975. Here's the story:
In the early 1970s, a group of children in Old Lyme began experiencing mysterious symptoms, including rashes, fever, and joint pain. Initially, doctors thought it might be juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, but the symptoms didn't quite fit.
Two mothers, Polly Murray and Judith Meneses, were determined to find answers. They gathered information, consulted with experts, and advocated for their children's health. Their efforts led to the involvement of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In 1975, the CDC sent a team of scientists to Old Lyme to investigate. They discovered that the children's symptoms were linked to a tick bite, and the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi was identified as the culprit.
The disease was initially called "Lyme arthritis" but was later renamed "Lyme disease" in recognition of the broader range of symptoms and the town where it was first identified.
The name "Lyme disease" honors the town of Old Lyme and the efforts of those who fought to raise awareness and find answers. Today, Lyme disease is recognized worldwide, and research continues to improve our understanding and treatment of this complex condition.
Now that you've known the history and how the name came to be, the next question should be this - What's Lyme disease?
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of an infected blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis).
Does this disease have typical symptoms and/or signs? If yes, what are they?
The symptoms include Erythema migrans (bull's eyes rash) which may expand up to 12inches, swollen lymph nodes, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle joint, etc.
If left untreated, it may progress into Arthritis, heart issues and even neurologic problem.
Ladies and Gentlemen, till we get to the promised land, I shall be waiting for when you'll pass me a glass of water and thank God for the gift of grace for the race.
NB - picture gotten from CDC
