Tokarz - The Everything Guide to Lyme Disease

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THE

GUIDE TO LYME DISEASE

Dear Reader,

Since you picked up this book, I assume you may be curious or have a lot of questions about Lyme disease. I have been doing research on ticks and tick-borne diseases for over fifteen years. During this time, I have often been approached by people who wanted to learn more about my work. Some were fascinated that I work with ticks. Others asked about my insights into Lyme disease. Speaking to them, I realized that there is a wide range of views and misconceptions about Lyme disease, and tick-borne diseases in general. The topic of Lyme disease can be complex, and invokes a lot of passion in many people. I wrote this guide with the hope that it will assist you in understanding what Lyme disease is and clear up any misunderstandings you may have about this illness. What I wanted to provide you with is a book that has all of the current scientific facts about Lyme disease, but also one that describes alternative beliefs and the reasons people have them. I hope you find this book informative, interesting, and, most important, useful in helping you prevent this illness.

Dr. Rafal Tokarz

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This book is intended as general information only and should not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. In light of the complex, individual, and specific nature of health problems, this book is not intended to replace professional medical advice. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions in this book are intended to supplement, not replace, the advice of a trained medical professional. Consult your physician before adopting any of the suggestions in this book, as well as about any condition that may require diagnosis or medical attention. The author and publisher disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of this book.

A special thank you to Esther, Aaron, Brian, Harvey, Iris, James, and Beata for their support. I could not have completed this book without your help. Jorge and Ian, thank you for the mentorship.

F ifty years ago, there was no such thing as Lyme disease. The disease that we now call Lyme disease was a rare illness that had not yet been properly characterized. Since its discovery, Lyme disease has gone on to become one of the most frequently occurring infectious diseases in the United States. Current estimates indicate that approximately 300,000 Americans are diagnosed with Lyme disease each year, indicating a tremendous public health problem. It can be a difficult disease to face, filled with a wide variety of symptoms. In addition, many patients complain of persistent symptoms long after the disease is believed to be cured, which can have a profound effect on their lives.

Despite the vast amount of progress that has been made in learning about Lyme disease, there is still a great deal of mystery and confusion surrounding it. If you are reading this book, chances are you have either been personally affected by Lyme disease or you are worried about how it could affect you if you were to acquire it. Perhaps you have seen it in the news recently and are seeking explanations for why there seems to be so much controversy and misunderstanding about this disease.

If you search for answers about Lyme disease on the Internet, you can find many websites that will explain how it is transmitted and diagnosed, what the symptoms are, and what you can expect if you get infected. Some of what you find may even be accurate. Unfortunately, you will also find a great deal of misinformation. In fact, some people within the Lyme disease community cant agree on things such as what Lyme disease actually is, what the symptoms are, and how to treat it.