Lyme disease is one  of the most misunderstood and potentially life-taking illnesses in the United States. It is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, which can be transmitted through the bite of an infected black-legged tick (deer tick). If diagnosed and treated early, many patients recover. However, delayed or missed diagnosis can allow Lyme disease to become a chronic, debilitating illness that affects the neurological, cardiac and immune systems and can even result in death.

 Lyme is most commonly found in children, aged 3-14, with adults over 50 being the next most affected group. Although anyone at any age, along with outdoor pets, can be infected. 

 The Lyme Challenge

Lyme disease was named after Lyme, Connecticut, where it was first identified, but infected ticks are now found across the U.S. The highest concentrations are in the Northeast, including Long Island. The CDC has estimated that 476,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year. Scientists estimate that millions more may suffer from post-treatment or untreated Lyme disease symptoms. 

One of the greatest challenges with Lyme is accurate diagnosis. A positive test confirms infection, but a negative test does not necessarily mean there is no Lyme in the body. Lyme also mimics other illnesses. Early symptoms often resemble the flu. As the disease progresses, a very wide range of symptoms are possible, including fatigue, fever, rash, facial paralysis, irregular heartbeat or joint pain. If the disease has already progressed into later stages, it is frequently mistaken for other conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, neurological issues or mental health disorders. Even patients who appear symptom-free after treatment should remain vigilant, as relapses can occur. 

Lyme Treatments

Standard treatment for Lyme is antibiotics. Some practitioners argue this is not sufficient, particularly in late-stage cases. Alternative treatments, such as intravenous Ozone Therapy, are gaining in popularity. Ozone Therapy can be used on its own or in conjunction with pharmaceuticals, which makes it an attractive adjunct treatment.

Research shows that Ozone Therapy improves the body’s intake and use of oxygen and activates the immune system to fight off disease. In addition, it improves blood flow and increases anti-inflammatory effects and it can destroy all the Lyme co-infections.

Dr. Howard Robins, a leader in bio-oxidative therapies, participated in research at Tufts University School of Medicine, with funding support from the Global Lyme Alliance, to show how Ozone Therapy works to combat Lyme. Robins has successfully used intravenous Ozone Therapy in his New York clinic for 35 years, administering more than 430,000 treatments proving its benefits and safety.

Prevention is Key

While ticks are typically associated with wooded areas, they can be carried by the wind to any place outdoors. In addition, a tick bite is not always detected if the tick falls off and does not cause a rash. If a rash appears, it may be missed. Avoiding ticks is critical. Wear long sleeves, light-colored clothing, use insect repellent and perform regular tick checks—even in unexpected places like Long Island beaches or the backyard.

After being outdoors near ticks, bathe or shower (preferably within 2 hours) to wash off and find ticks more easily. Conduct a full-body tick check using a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of the body (parents should check children thoroughly, especially in the hair). Examine gear and pets. Tumble dry clothes on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on clothing.

For more information on Ozone Therapy for Lyme Disease, visitYouTube.com,” Functional Medicine with Dr. Robins” or call 212-581-0101. Nassau County treatments are available.