EN 
DE 
ES 
FR 
IT 
Lyme disease, often also called Lyme borreliosis, is one of the best-known infectious diseases transmitted by ticks. Despite its prevalence, it remains a mysterious and often underestimated danger for many. The disease can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild fever to severe joint and nerve damage. Particularly insidious: the first signs are often unspecific, which makes diagnosis difficult. In this comprehensive overview, you will learn how Lyme disease is transmitted, what symptoms can occur and how timely treatment can prevent serious consequences. You can also find out how you can effectively protect yourself from tick bites and minimize the risk of infection.
1 What is Lyme disease?
Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi is caused. It is mainly transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, especially of the genus Ixodes (also known as the shield tick). This disease is widespread in many parts of the world, especially in Europe and North America. The risk of infection is particularly high in wooded areas where ticks are present.
Interestingly, not every tick carries the Lyme disease bacterium. Studies show that around 20 to 30 percent of ticks with Borrelia burgdorferi are infected. The risk of actually contracting Lyme disease after a tick bite is therefore relatively low, but should not be underestimated. The often unspecific symptoms of Lyme disease are particularly problematic, which can make diagnosis difficult. However, the sooner the disease is recognized and treated, the better the chances of recovery.
2 How is Lyme disease transmitted?
Lyme disease is transmitted via the bite of infected ticks, which Borrelia burgdorferi in their gastrointestinal tract. When a tick sucks blood, the bacteria can enter the human bloodstream via the saliva. It usually takes a few hours for the pathogens to enter the body, which is why early removal of the tick significantly reduces the risk of infection.
Tick life cycle:
Ticks have a multi-stage life cycle that extends from the larva to the nymph to the adult tick. At each stage, they can ingest and pass on Borrelia bacteria. Nymphs are particularly dangerous as they are tiny and difficult to recognize. They are often not noticed until they have sucked blood.
Risk areas:
Certain regions are more affected by Lyme disease than others. In Europe, Germany, Austria and Switzerland in particular are risk areas where most infections occur. Ticks are particularly active in damp, wooded areas and the risk of infection is highest in the warm months between April and October.
Risk groups:
Anyone who spends time outdoors can be affected by a tick bite, but people who often work outdoors or engage in leisure activities such as hiking or camping are at increased risk. Children who spend a lot of time outdoors and people who live in rural or wooded areas are particularly at risk.
3. the symptoms of Lyme borreliosis
The symptoms of Lyme disease occur in three stages, which have different manifestations and degrees of severity. This gradual progression makes the disease particularly insidious.
The first sign of Lyme disease is often the so-called Wandering blush (erythema migrans), a ring-shaped reddening of the skin that spreads around the tick bite site. However, this sign only occurs in around 50 percent of infected people. Other early symptoms often resemble flu:
- Fever
- Headache & Migraine
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
If left untreated, the infection can progress to the second stage, in which the bacteria can affect the nervous system, joints and heart. Symptoms include:
- Joint pain and swelling (usually in the large joints such as the knee or elbow)
- Facial paralysis (facial nerve palsy)
- Neuritis
- Cardiac arrhythmia
The third stage of Lyme disease, also known as the late stage, can occur months to years after the tick bite. The symptoms include
- Chronic arthritis
- Neurological disorders, such as memory problems and poor concentration
- Severe tiredness and exhaustion
The late form of Lyme disease can have serious consequences and severely impair quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment are therefore crucial to prevent serious complications.
4 How is Lyme disease diagnosed?
The diagnosis of Lyme disease can be challenging due to the non-specific symptoms. Nevertheless, there are a number of diagnostic procedures that are considered to detect the disease.
When should you see a doctor?
As soon as symptoms such as flushing or flu-like symptoms occur after a tick bite, a doctor should definitely be consulted. Even if there is no rash, it is important to look out for other signs such as tiredness or joint pain.
Diagnostic tests:
To confirm the diagnosis, serological tests are usually carried out to look for antibodies against Borrelia. These include
- ELISA testA first screening test that reacts to antibodies.
- Western blot testIs used to confirm positive ELISA results.
In some cases, PCR tests (polymerase chain reaction) can also be used to detect the genetic material of the borrelia. This is particularly helpful if an infection is suspected in the nervous system or joint fluid.
Challenges in diagnosis:
One problem with diagnosis is that serologic tests are not always reliable, especially in the early stages of the disease. False-negative results are not uncommon, which can delay treatment. Doctors therefore often have to make a clinical diagnosis based on the symptoms and the possible tick bite, even if the test results are inconclusive.
5. medicinal plants for Lyme disease
Wild cardoon is often used in naturopathy as a supportive remedy for Lyme disease. Its roots contain active ingredients that are traditionally known for their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Many users report that wild teasel extracts can help to strengthen the immune system and support the body's own defenses against Lyme disease pathogens.
Heart Seeds, also known as balloon vine, is used in naturopathy to support the treatment of Lyme disease. The plant has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that can help relieve joint and muscle pain - symptoms that often occur with Lyme disease. Heart seed is particularly valued in the treatment of inflammation and autoimmune reactions, as it can modulate the immune system and reduce inflammatory processes in the body.Â
Periwinkle is used in naturopathy as a supportive remedy for Lyme disease, particularly because of its anti-inflammatory and circulation-promoting properties. The plant contains alkaloids, such as vincamine, which promote blood circulation in the brain, which could be helpful for neurological symptoms of Lyme disease. Periwinkle is traditionally used to boost cognitive function and relieve inflammation caused by Lyme disease.Â
The Small stinging nettle is often used in naturopathy as a supportive remedy for Lyme disease. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties can help to alleviate symptoms such as joint pain and inflammation, which are common with Lyme disease. The plant is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that strengthen the body and support healing. In addition, nettle's diuretic effect can help the body to detoxify, which can be beneficial during the treatment of Lyme disease.
Thujaalso known as the tree of life, is used in naturopathy as a supportive therapy for Lyme disease. Thuja has antiviral and immunomodulating properties that can stimulate the immune system to fight the Lyme disease pathogens. It is also used to strengthen the body's general defenses and reduce inflammation. In homeopathy, Thuja is often used to treat chronic infections and support the healing process.Â
With natural methods, such as the individual spagyric mixtures from Zimply Natural, your complaints can be relieved naturally and sustainably.
6. treatment options for Lyme disease
Lyme disease is treatable in most cases if it is detected early. The most common treatment method is the administration of antibiotics.
Antibiotic therapy:
The standard treatment for Lyme disease consists of administering antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin or ceftriaxone. The therapy usually lasts two to four weeks, depending on the severity of the infection and the stage of the disease.
Treatment duration and effectiveness:
In most cases, antibiotic therapy leads to a complete cure. The symptoms subside after a few weeks and the patient recovers completely. In some patients, however, residual symptoms such as fatigue or joint pain may persist even after successful treatment, which are referred to as Post-Lyme syndrome be referred to as.
Long-term consequences and complications:
If Lyme disease is not treated, serious long-term consequences can occur. These include
- Chronic arthritis: persistent joint pain, especially in the knees.
- Neuroborreliosis: damage to the nervous system that can lead to paralysis and cognitive impairment.
- Heart problems: Inflammation of the heart muscle can cause cardiac arrhythmia.
It is therefore essential to treat the infection at an early stage in order to prevent such complications.
Chronic Lyme disease:
Chronic Lyme disease is often difficult to treat with conventional medical methods, as the infection does not always respond to antibiotics in advanced stages. In naturopathy, however, there are various approaches that aim to strengthen immune function and promote physical resilience. In terms of salutogenesis, the focus is on maintaining health and the body's self-healing powers. Medicinal plants, such as Wild cardoon or Thujaas well as special diets and detoxification methods can help to support the immune system and stabilize the body.
7. prevention and protection against Lyme borreliosis
As Lyme disease is transmitted by ticks, the key to prevention lies in avoiding tick bites.
Avoidance of tick bites:
- ClothingWear long pants and long-sleeved clothing to cover the skin. Light-colored clothing helps to detect ticks more easily.
- RepellentsInsect repellents containing DEET or Icaridin offer additional protection.
- Avoid ticksAvoid tall grasses and dense forests where ticks are common.
Safe removal of ticks:
If you are bitten by a tick, it is important to remove it as quickly as possible. The best way to do this is to use fine tweezers and pull the tick out carefully but firmly. Avoid twisting or squeezing the tick to prevent transmission of the bacteria.
10. FAQ: Questions about Lyme disease
How long does it take for Lyme disease to appear after a tick bite?
After a tick bite, the first symptoms of Lyme disease can usually appear within a few days. 3 to 30 days occur. In many cases, the characteristic Wandering blush (erythema migrans) about a week after the bite, although it does not remain visible in all infected people. Other early symptoms such as fever, tiredness and muscle or joint pain can also occur during this period. It is important that those affected look out for these signs and consult a doctor early if Lyme disease is suspected to ensure timely treatment.
Can Lyme disease be fatal?
Lyme disease usually progresses non-fatalbut can have serious health consequences if not treated or treated too late. If left untreated, the infection can lead to chronic symptoms such as Joint inflammation (arthritis), neurological disorders (neuroborreliosis) or Heart problems which can severely impair quality of life. In very rare cases, untreated Lyme disease can damage the heart (Lyme carditis) to such an extent that it can lead to life-threatening complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid such risks.
What should I do if I find a tick on my body?
If you have a Tick on your body, it is important to act quickly to minimize the risk of a Lyme disease infection. It is best to remove the tick immediately with a fine tweezers or a special Tick tweezers. Grasp the tick directly on the skinto grasp it as close as possible to the puncture site. Pull the tick slowly and straight Remove the tick without twisting or squeezing it. Make sure that no parts of the tick remain in the skin. Disinfect the puncture site carefully after removal. It is important to monitor the area over the coming weeks. Pay attention to changes, especially to the so-called Wandering blush - a ring-shaped reddening of the skin, which can be a sign of Lyme disease. If symptoms such as fever, tiredness or joint pain occur, you should consult a doctor immediately. In some cases it can be helpful to keep the removed tick in case it is needed later for testing for Lyme disease pathogens.
