Tanya Ewing has suffered from Lyme Disease since 1999. Her experience of Lyme disease was life-changing. It resulted in her being unable to work, being on benefits for several years and having to give up her favourite sports of water skiing, golf and skiing.
Ever since she contracted this little known about disease Tanya has campaigned tirelessly to raise awareness of this very debilitating condition.
Lyme disease can be transmitted to humans by a bite from an infected tick. Ticks are usually found in places such as forests and health land and even parks. A tick is very small and can be easily missed. Late spring, early summer and autumn are the most likely times for infection, as these are the peak times of the year for tick feeding. A tick bite usually looks like a lump with a small scab on the surface. Most people with Lyme disease then develop a reddish skin rash in a ring shape, and this may be the only sign of infection. The rash spreads out from the site of a bite after 3 to 30 days.
In rare cases there are more serious complications that can affect the nervous system, joints, heart and other tissues. If sufferers of other major illnesses such as Multiple Sclerosis or Motor Neurons Disease find out over time that their illness is not progressing the way it should, they are often diagnosed with Lyme Disease. Once treated, they can regain a better standard of living. Unfortunately not everyone knows when he or she has been bitten. Tanya's advice is to seek medical attention if you find you have been bitten and start to feel unwell.
http://www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk