These Are Signs That a Tick Is Making You Sick

 

Ticks can transmit serious diseases, so look out for these symptoms.

Do you love spending time outdoors at this time of year? If so, you’re in good company – and some not-so-good company, too. Ticks are most active during the warmer months of the year, and depending on where you live, you may come in contact with ticks that can make you sick.

Here are answers to some common questions about ticks, including where you’ll find them, what types of illnesses they may cause, and how you can protect yourself.

Where do ticks live?

Ticks tend to live in grassy, wooded or brush-filled areas. They like shade and moisture. Ticks are most commonly found in the Northeast and in New England, but different types of ticks can be found in many other parts of the country as well.

Can all ticks make you sick?

There are many different species of ticks but only some transmit bacteria, viruses or parasites that can make you sick. Some diseases transmitted by ticks can be very serious, though, so if you feel sick after you are bitten by a tick, see a doctor right away. Even if you don’t remember getting bitten but have been in areas where ticks commonly live, get checked by a doctor if you exhibit signs of a tick-borne illness.

What kinds of illnesses do ticks transmit?

The most common disease associated with ticks is Lyme disease, but it’s not the only one. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ticks in the U.S. may transmit anaplasmosis, babesiosis, borrelia mayonii, borrelia miyamotoi, bourbon virus, Colorado tick fever, ehrlichiosis, heartland virus, powassan disease, rickettsia parkeri rickettsiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, southern tick-associated rash illness, tickborne relapsing fever, tularemia and 364D rickettsiosis. These illnesses are transmitted by different types of ticks and may only be found in specific regions of the country.

What are signs that you may have a tick-borne illness?

Although different illnesses transmitted by ticks each have their own set of symptoms, many have similar symptoms. If you develop any of these symptoms after getting bitten by a tick, see a doctor:

• Fever/chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Joint pain
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Weakness or paralysis

How can you protect yourself from getting sick from a tick?

The best way to avoid getting a tick-borne illness is to take steps to protect yourself from getting bitten by a tick.

• Take precautions if you are in locations where ticks are commonly found. Avoid wooded, grassy and brushy areas.
• Wear long pants and closed shoes, with your pants tucked into your socks. Also wear long-sleeve shirts.
• Treat your clothing, shoes and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin.
• Spray your skin with insect repellant containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone.
• Check your clothing and gear for ticks. Tumble dry clothing on high heat for at least 10 minutes to kill any ticks you may have missed. Also check pets carefully.
• Take a shower and do a tick check. Carefully look at every part of your body, using a mirror if necessary. Keep in mind that ticks can be hard to spot and may be hiding in places that are not easy to see such as behind your ears, in your hair, under your arms or between your legs.
• The faster you remove a tick, the less likely you are to become sick. If a tick has bitten you, use tweezers to grasp the tick firmly by its head near your skin and pull it straight out with a slow and steady motion. Make sure you don’t leave the head embedded in the skin.

Copyright 2023 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: June 16, 2023

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

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No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

 

What's the Difference Between Psoriasis and Eczema?

 

Although some symptoms are similar, here’s how to know which condition you may have.

Your skin is one of those things you tend not to think about it unless it’s bothering you. But when it does, who can think about anything else?

If you have skin irritations that don’t easily go away with over-the-counter medications, it’s possible you have eczema or psoriasis. Some symptoms of these conditions, including discolored skin, rashes, burning and itching, are similar. That’s why it can be difficult to know which condition you have without a medical exam. If you suspect you have either of these skin conditions, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get the right diagnosis and treatment.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune disease. This means your immune system isn’t functioning properly and your skin cells grow too fast. Plaque psoriasis is the most common type of this condition. It may appear as red patches with silvery scales on lighter skin, while it looks more purple or discolored on darker skin tones. The patches may be thick and raised and most often appear on the knees, elbows or torso. They can also be on the face, scalp or buttocks.

Psoriasis usually appears in early adulthood or later, but you can get it at any age. The condition not only causes inflammation of the skin, but also inflammation inside the body. If the inflammation also affects your joints, it is referred to as psoriatic arthritis.

If you have psoriasis, you may be more likely to have other conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, anxiety or depression. Since psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder, you’re also at an increased risk of developing other autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Eczema

Eczema causes the skin to become itchy and inflamed and to have a rash-like appearance but it is not an autoimmune disease. It can occur in the same places on the body as psoriasis, but most often is found in the crooks of the knees and elbows. Affected areas can appear as dry red or brown patches. They can be bumpy but are not as raised as they are if you have psoriasis.

Atopic dermatitis is the most common type of eczema. It affects more than 9.6 million children and about 16.5 million adults, according to the National Eczema Association. It typically begins in childhood, although it can develop at any age.

Both genetic and environmental factors can trigger eczema. Some researchers believe it can be caused by a genetic mutation that occurs on the protective outer layer of skin. It may also be caused by living in a dry climate or an urban area with pollutants.

Treatment

Whether you are diagnosed with eczema or psoriasis, treatments aimed at providing relief may be similar:

• Topical creams: Your doctor may prescribe a cream or recommend an over-the-counter treatment for mild cases.
• Light therapy: In this treatment, your skin is exposed to a healthy, controlled amount of UVB light under medical supervision. This helps reduce itching and inflammation, as well as boost your skin’s ability to fight bacteria.
• Oral medication: If your condition is severe, a doctor may prescribe systemics. This oral medication helps control your immune system response and reduce inflammation.
• Biologics: Delivered by injection or an IV infusion, this targets the protein that creates the inflammation.

Unless your symptoms are very mild and improve with over-the-counter remedies, you will need to see a doctor for a diagnosis since all other treatments are available by prescription only.

Copyright 2023 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: June 16, 2023

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

 

7 Tips for Safely Working Out in the Heat

 

If it’s hot and humid outside, here’s how to get your workout in without feeling sick.

The heat is on! But does that mean your workout needs to be put on hold? No way! There’s no doubt that you’ll have to take some precautions or make a few adjustments if you’re planning to exercise when temps and humidity soar, but as long as you’re smart about it, there’s no reason you need to skip your workout during the dog days of summer.

Here are 7 tips to help you enjoy your workout more safely and comfortably:

1. Stay hydrated. One of the biggest threats to working out in high heat is dehydration. Make sure you drink up before, during and after your workout. Although water is always the best way to stay hydrated, you may need to sip on a sports drink that contains sodium, potassium and other electrolytes if you’re working out for more than 60 minutes or are going especially hard.
2. Take a cool shower before you begin. Start off feeling comfortable by dipping into a cool shower and leaving your hair wet. Your wet hair will help keep you cooler, at least at the beginning of your workout.
3. Don’t forget sunscreen. The heat isn’t the only thing you need to worry about. Sunburn can ruin your workout, too. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher shortly before working out. Choose one that is waterproof so it stays on even when you start to sweat.
4. Dress for the weather. Wear light-colored clothing made from sweat-wicking material. Cotton can also help you stay cooler since it is breathable. Avoid dark colors that can absorb the heat of the sun.
5. Change your timing. Early morning or later in the evening are typically the coolest times of the day to exercise outdoors. Try to avoid the midday sun and heat when possible. Choosing a day when the breeze is blowing, the clouds are abundant or there’s even some rain falling are ideal outdoor workout days in the summer.
6. Find a new location. You may love exercising outdoors, but sometimes it’s just not worth it. If the temperature is too high, it’s very humid, the air quality is poor or you find that the heat gets to you or compromises your performance, take your workout indoors. This can be the safest way to exercise in the heat.
7. Listen to your body. You may feel that it’s okay to sweat and that you’re immune to heat-related illness, but that thinking can be dangerous. Although a little sweat never hurt anyone, take a break if you begin to feel dizzy, nauseous, weak or tired. If you experience muscle cramps, a headache or feel off in any way, stop what you’re doing and get out of the heat. Drink lots of fluids and find a place where you can cool down. Continuing to push your body can lead to serious heat-related illness that can quickly become a medical emergency.

Copyright 2023 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: June 15, 2023

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Andrew Overman, DPT, MS, COMT, CSCS

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.

Don’t Miss These Signs of Heat-Related Illness

 

Heat-related illnesses can be very serious, so it’s important to recognize if they are happening.

It can be uncomfortable to spend time outdoors when it’s very hot. But if you’re not careful, it can also be downright dangerous. Heat-related illnesses are not uncommon and can make you feel sick. If left unchecked, they can even become life-threatening.

Here are signs of three types of heat-related illnesses, and what to do if you or someone you know exhibits these signs.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps usually happen when you’re exercising in the heat and you’re sweating so much that you’re losing salt and fluid, causing your muscles to cramp. The most common symptoms include muscle pain or spasms during exercise, usually in the legs, arms or abdomen. You’ll also be sweating heavily but your skin should be cool and moist.

If you experience these signs, stop the activity you are doing and wait for the cramps to go away before resuming your activity. In the meantime, drink water or a sports drink and try to stay cool. If the cramps persist for more than an hour, you are on a low-sodium diet or you have heart problems, seek medical attention.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can occur if you’re out in the heat for long periods of time or don’t drink enough fluids. Signs of heat exhaustion mean you need to get out of the heat right away and get to a cool place. You also need to cool your body down before symptoms escalate to heat stroke. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Heavy sweating
• Extreme thirst
• Decrease in urination
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Lack of coordination
• Headache
• Irritability
• Cold, pale, clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Rapid breathing
• Fainting

To cool your body down, move to a cool place, loosen your clothes and put cool compresses on your body or take a cool bath or shower. It’s also important to drink water, but sip it slowly, don’t chug it. If your symptoms last longer than an hour or get worse, get medical help right away.

Heat Stroke

This is the most serious heat-related illness and should be considered a medical emergency. A person’s body temperature may quickly rise to temperatures of 106^oF or higher, which is extremely dangerous and can lead to organ failure and even death. If you notice someone with these symptoms, call 911. In the meantime, help lower the person’s body temperature by getting them out of the heat and placing cool compresses on them or putting them in a cool bath (don’t leave them unattended). Do not give the person anything to drink.

Symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Hot, red, dry skin
• No sweating
• Fast, strong pulse
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Agitation
• Muscle twitching
• Seizures
• Slurred speech
• Confusion, hallucinations, altered mental state
• High body temperature (103^oF or higher)
• Passing out, loss of consciousness

Seeking Medical Attention

Some symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke are similar. If you are unsure if a person needs medical attention, err on the side of caution and get help. Most importantly, if someone appears confused or has an altered level of consciousness, call 911 and seek medical attention immediately. Even if you think a person is experiencing heat exhaustion and not heat stroke, get medical help if the person does not seem to quickly improve once they are out of the heat and measures are taken to try to cool them down.

Copyright 2023 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Cook eKitchen™ is a designated trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.

Date Last Reviewed: June 16, 2023

Editorial Review: Andrea Cohen, Editorial Director, Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Contact Editor

Medical Review: Perry Pitkow, MD

Learn more about Baldwin Publishing Inc. editorial policy, privacy policy, ADA compliance and sponsorship policy.

No information provided by Baldwin Publishing, Inc. in any article is a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical condition. Baldwin Publishing, Inc. strongly suggests that you use this information in consultation with your doctor or other health professional. Use or viewing of any Baldwin Publishing, Inc. article signifies your understanding and agreement to the disclaimer and acceptance of these terms of use.