Health and Me

Aarushi Bhadury

An Afternoon Nap Could Cost Middle-Age People Years Of Their Life

<span>Sleep</span> hygiene is something we should all keep up with constantly. While you may think you can skimp on sleep, your body needs it to keep functioning properly. Not only does sleep help us make sure our body runs all its functions smoothly, but it also keeps a sleep debt. Losing an hour of sleep may not seem like much, but your body requires 4 hours more to make up for that lost hour of sleep. Understanding this, many people opt for afternoon naps that span a few hours to help them recover lost energy. However, these naps are also not all safe for your health, especially for older adults.

An afternoon nap might seem like a good idea for middle-aged and older adults, but these short rests could actually come with a significant cost. New research suggests that certain napping habits might increase the risk of an early death. These findings are expected to be presented at an upcoming meeting of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).

<h2>Napping Patterns and Early Death</h2>

Researchers explained that people who slept longer during the day, had irregular napping schedules, or napped more around midday and early afternoon faced a greater risk. This was true even when other health and lifestyle factors were considered. These findings challenge the popular idea of the "power nap."

For the study, researchers looked at information from over 86,500 people taking part in the UK Biobank, a long-term health research project. The sleep habits of these individuals were tracked for a week using wrist devices, and then researchers compared these habits to death records. On average, the participants were 63 years old when their napping was monitored.

Over an 11-year follow-up period, nearly 5,200 people in the study passed away. The results showed a higher risk of dying sooner for:

<ul><li>People who usually took longer naps during the day.</li><li>Those whose napping times changed often.</li><li>Individuals who napped between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.</li></ul>

This last point goes against current AASM guidelines, which suggest that adults limit themselves to "power naps" of no more than 20 to 30 minutes in the early afternoon. Researchers noted that naps longer than half an hour can actually make you feel groggy, canceling out any potential benefits.

<h2>What Does Healthy Sleep Look Like For Different Ages</h2>According to the Mayo Clinic, healthy sleeping patterns differ according to age. The recommendations give are, 

<strong>Infants (4 to 12 months):</strong> Aim for 12 to 16 hours within a 24-hour day, including naps.

<strong>Toddlers (1 to 2 years):</strong> They need 11 to 14 hours in 24 hours, including naps.

<strong>Preschoolers (3 to 5 years):</strong> Target 10 to 13 hours within a 24-hour period, including naps.

<strong>School-aged Children (6 to 12 years):</strong> 9 to 12 hours every 24 hours is ideal.

<strong>Teenagers (13 to 18 years): </strong>8 to 10 hours within a 24-hour period is recommended.

<strong>Adults:</strong> Most adults need 7 or more hours of sleep each night.

<h2>Other Factors Affecting Your Sleep Needs</h2>

Besides age, several other things can influence how much sleep you require,

It's vital not just how long you sleep, but how soundly. Frequent interruptions mean poor quality rest. Getting truly restful sleep is equally important as the total hours.

If you haven't been getting enough sleep lately, your body needs extra rest. You'll have to make up for lost sleep to feel refreshed and function well.

Hormonal shifts during pregnancy can make sleep difficult. Physical discomfort also contributes to poor sleep quality, leaving expectant mothers feeling less rested than usual.

While older adults need similar sleep amounts as younger adults, their sleep patterns change. They might sleep lighter, take longer to fall asleep, wake up more often, and have shorter sleep cycles at night.

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Afternoon Nap and Middle-Age People

Middle-Age People health

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how sleep affects older adults

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Early-On Set GI Cancer On The Rise Among Ages 50 And Below – Risk Factors Associated With Cancer In Young Adults

World Brain Day 2025: Signs of Brain Tumors You Might Be Dismissing as “Just Stress”

Family Shares How A Lyme Disease Misdiagnosis Cost Their Son's Childhood

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Sleep hygiene is something we should all keep up with constantly. While you may think you can skimp on sleep, your body needs it to keep functioning properly. Not only does sleep help us make sure our body runs all its functions smoothly, but it also keeps a sleep debt. Losing an hour of sleep may not seem like much, but your body requires 4 hours more to make up for that lost hour of sleep. Understanding this, many people opt for afternoon naps that span a few hours to help them recover lost energy. However, these naps are also not all safe for your health, especially for older adults.An afternoon nap might seem like a good idea for middle-aged and older adults, but these short rests could actually come with a significant cost. New research suggests that certain napping habits might increase the risk of an early death. These findings are expected to be presented at an upcoming meeting of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM).Napping Patterns and Early DeathResearchers explained that people who slept longer during the day, had irregular napping schedules, or napped more around midday and early afternoon faced a greater risk. This was true even when other health and lifestyle factors were considered. These findings challenge the popular idea of the "power nap."For the study, researchers looked at information from over 86,500 people taking part in the UK Biobank, a long-term health research project. The sleep habits of these individuals were tracked for a week using wrist devices, and then researchers compared these habits to death records. On average, the participants were 63 years old when their napping was monitored.What Did The Research Find?Over an 11-year follow-up period, nearly 5,200 people in the study passed away. The results showed a higher risk of dying sooner for:People who usually took longer naps during the day.Those whose napping times changed often.Individuals who napped between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.This last point goes against current AASM guidelines, which suggest that adults limit themselves to "power naps" of no more than 20 to 30 minutes in the early afternoon. Researchers noted that naps longer than half an hour can actually make you feel groggy, canceling out any potential benefits.What Does Healthy Sleep Look Like For Different AgesAccording to the Mayo Clinic, healthy sleeping patterns differ according to age. The recommendations give are, Infants (4 to 12 months): Aim for 12 to 16 hours within a 24-hour day, including naps.Toddlers (1 to 2 years): They need 11 to 14 hours in 24 hours, including naps.Preschoolers (3 to 5 years): Target 10 to 13 hours within a 24-hour period, including naps.School-aged Children (6 to 12 years): 9 to 12 hours every 24 hours is ideal.Teenagers (13 to 18 years): 8 to 10 hours within a 24-hour period is recommended.Adults: Most adults need 7 or more hours of sleep each night.Other Factors Affecting Your Sleep NeedsBesides age, several other things can influence how much sleep you require,Sleep QualityIt's vital not just how long you sleep, but how soundly. Frequent interruptions mean poor quality rest. Getting truly restful sleep is equally important as the total hours. Previous Sleep DebtIf you haven't been getting enough sleep lately, your body needs extra rest. You'll have to make up for lost sleep to feel refreshed and function well. PregnancyHormonal shifts during pregnancy can make sleep difficult. Physical discomfort also contributes to poor sleep quality, leaving expectant mothers feeling less rested than usual. AgingWhile older adults need similar sleep amounts as younger adults, their sleep patterns change. They might sleep lighter, take longer to fall asleep, wake up more often, and have shorter sleep cycles at night.

an afternoon nap could cost middle-age people years of their life

Sarcoma Awareness Month Exclusive: You Should Listen Closely To What Your Body Tells You, Advises Top US Sarcoma Expert

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3 Foods That Can Increase Your Risk Of Life-Threatening Diseases - Even If You Have It Just Once A Day

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Health News

Childhood Obesity Can Be Predicted With A Genetic Test: Scientists Identify Early-Life Markers That Signal Risk

childhood obesity can be predicted with a genetic test: scientists identify early-life markers that signal risk

12-Year-Old Teen Dies From Rare Brain Tumor After Unusual Early Signs, Grieving Mother Urges Parents To Watch For Subtle Symptoms

12-year-old teen dies from rare brain tumor after unusual early signs, grieving mother urges parents to watch for subtle symptoms

While many people do not consider cancer to be a big cause of concern for young adults However, how many times have we heard of stories of young kids suffering with cancer and young adults who had to put their lives on hold due to unexpected cancer diagnoses? The increase in young adults with cancer is not a mere coincidence; a new study shows that the past decade has seen an increase in the number of early-onset gastrointestinal (GI) cancer cases. 

New research published in the British Journal of Surgery shows a really worrying trend, they stated cancers of the stomach, intestines, and other digestive organs are increasing incredibly fast in people 50 and younger in the U.S. This isn't just a small increase; it's happening quicker than any other type of cancer in younger people. It's a big health concern for younger Americans.

The study points out that between 2010 and 2019, the number of <span>GI cancer</span> cases in young people jumped by almost 15%. While colon cancer is the most common of these early cancers, making up over half the cases worldwide, it's not the only one. Cancers of the pancreas, stomach, and esophagus are also becoming more common in younger individuals. This is extra concerning because when younger people get these cancers, they often act more aggressively, meaning they need more intense treatment, and sadly, their chances of survival can be similar to or even worse than older patients. 

While most GI cancer cases are still in people aged 40 to 49, the increase is even steeper in younger age groups. For example, if you were born in 1990, you're twice as likely to get colon cancer and four times as likely to get rectal cancer compared to someone born in 1950. Data from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) confirms this, showing that colon cancer rates have more than tripled in teenagers (15-19) and almost doubled in young adults (20-24). Also, recent studies from 2018 to 2022 found that women saw bigger increases in several early-onset GI cancers:

<strong>Colon cancers:</strong> Went up by 5% each year for women, compared to 3.5% for men.

<strong>Esophageal cancers:</strong> Increased almost 6% yearly for women, versus 1% for men.

<strong>Stomach cancers:</strong> Rose about 4% each year for women, and less than 3% for men.

<strong>Small intestine cancers:</strong> Grew by 3.5% for women, and under 3% for men. 

On top of that, the studies highlighted that Black, Hispanic, and Native American people are being affected much more by this rise in GI cancers. 

<h2>Critical Need for Screening and Prevention </h2>

Despite these alarming numbers, new guidelines that recommend colon cancer screening for healthy people starting at age 45 haven't been widely adopted. In fact, in 2021, only about 1 in 5 Americans aged 45 to 49 actually got screened. 

Getting screened is super important! It's been proven to save lives by not only reducing the number of people who get colorectal cancer but also by lowering the number of deaths from it. Every time someone skips a screening, it's a lost chance to find cancer early when it's easier to treat, or even to prevent cancer entirely by finding and removing precancerous growths called polyps. 

<h2>Risk Factors and Future Directions </h2>

Several things can increase your risk of getting GI cancer, including being overweight, eating a lot of high-fat Western-style foods, having fatty liver disease, smoking, and drinking alcohol. 

Researchers are now urging more studies to figure out why GI cancer rates are going up in younger adults. They're also pushing for better ways to prevent these cancers and find them early. More information is especially needed for pancreatic, stomach, and esophageal cancers. Raising awareness and educating people about these issues is vital because, as a group, digestive system cancers cause a significant number of cancer-related deaths in young adults both in the U.S. and around the world. 

Early On Set GI Cancer

Cancer among youngsters

cancers and young adults

GI Cancer

risk factors of GI cancer

Cancer among youngsters increasing

While many people do not consider cancer to be a big cause of concern for young adults However, how many times have we heard of stories of young kids suffering with cancer and young adults who had to put their lives on hold due to unexpected cancer diagnoses? The increase in young adults with cancer is not a mere coincidence; a new study shows that the past decade has seen an increase in the number of early-onset gastrointestinal (GI) cancer cases. New research published in the British Journal of Surgery shows a really worrying trend, they stated cancers of the stomach, intestines, and other digestive organs are increasing incredibly fast in people 50 and younger in the U.S. This isn't just a small increase; it's happening quicker than any other type of cancer in younger people. It's a big health concern for younger Americans. Scope of the Problem The study points out that between 2010 and 2019, the number of GI cancer cases in young people jumped by almost 15%. While colon cancer is the most common of these early cancers, making up over half the cases worldwide, it's not the only one. Cancers of the pancreas, stomach, and esophagus are also becoming more common in younger individuals. This is extra concerning because when younger people get these cancers, they often act more aggressively, meaning they need more intense treatment, and sadly, their chances of survival can be similar to or even worse than older patients. Who is Most Affected? While most GI cancer cases are still in people aged 40 to 49, the increase is even steeper in younger age groups. For example, if you were born in 1990, you're twice as likely to get colon cancer and four times as likely to get rectal cancer compared to someone born in 1950. Data from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) confirms this, showing that colon cancer rates have more than tripled in teenagers (15-19) and almost doubled in young adults (20-24). Also, recent studies from 2018 to 2022 found that women saw bigger increases in several early-onset GI cancers:Colon cancers: Went up by 5% each year for women, compared to 3.5% for men.Esophageal cancers: Increased almost 6% yearly for women, versus 1% for men.Stomach cancers: Rose about 4% each year for women, and less than 3% for men.Small intestine cancers: Grew by 3.5% for women, and under 3% for men. On top of that, the studies highlighted that Black, Hispanic, and Native American people are being affected much more by this rise in GI cancers. Critical Need for Screening and Prevention Despite these alarming numbers, new guidelines that recommend colon cancer screening for healthy people starting at age 45 haven't been widely adopted. In fact, in 2021, only about 1 in 5 Americans aged 45 to 49 actually got screened. Getting screened is super important! It's been proven to save lives by not only reducing the number of people who get colorectal cancer but also by lowering the number of deaths from it. Every time someone skips a screening, it's a lost chance to find cancer early when it's easier to treat, or even to prevent cancer entirely by finding and removing precancerous growths called polyps. Risk Factors and Future Directions Several things can increase your risk of getting GI cancer, including being overweight, eating a lot of high-fat Western-style foods, having fatty liver disease, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Researchers are now urging more studies to figure out why GI cancer rates are going up in younger adults. They're also pushing for better ways to prevent these cancers and find them early. More information is especially needed for pancreatic, stomach, and esophageal cancers. Raising awareness and educating people about these issues is vital because, as a group, digestive system cancers cause a significant number of cancer-related deaths in young adults both in the U.S. and around the world. 

early-on set gi cancer on the rise among ages 50 and below – risk factors associated with cancer in young adults

Ishita Roy

World Brain Day 2025: History, Theme, And Significance

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Does Your Mind Go Blank Mid-Conversation? Science Reveals The Truth ‘Blanking Out’

does your mind go blank mid-conversation? science reveals the truth ‘blanking out’

World Brain Day 2025: Could Your Brain Heal Itself? Why Scientists Are Betting On Neuroplasticity To Treat Neurological Disorders

world brain day 2025: could your brain heal itself? why scientists are betting on neuroplasticity to treat neurological disorders

Every year, World Brain Day is marked to raise awareness around <span>brain health</span> and neurological conditions that often go undiagnosed or misunderstood. This year’s theme focuses on brain health and early detection, emphasizing how subtle signs—often brushed off as routine stress—may actually be the brain’s way of raising an alarm.

While stress-related fatigue, burnout, and tension headaches are all-too-common in today’s never-resting, always hustling world, experts warn that dismissing persistent or unusual neurological symptoms as “just stress” could delay diagnosis of something more serious, such as a brain tumor.

We spoke with Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Director and Head (Parkinson's Disease Unit), Neurosciences, Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, to understand the difference between stress symptoms and potential red flags.

<h4>Not All Headaches Are Just “Stress Headaches”</h4>

Headaches are the most common symptom people link with stress, but not all headaches are created equal. 

Dr. Kumar explains, “A worst headache in the morning may be a feature of subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), which is a medical emergency. Stress headaches are usually mild to moderate and without vomiting. SAH is usually very severe and comes with nausea or vomiting.”

He adds that if your headache feels significantly different from your usual ones, especially if it’s persistent, worsening over time, or most intense after waking up, it’s worth seeking a neurological opinion.

<h4>Brain Fog vs. Brain Tumor-Linked Cognitive Symptoms</h4>

Feeling mentally scattered, struggling to focus, or forgetting things easily? It could be burnout, but not always.

“Brain fog due to burnout is usually transient, affecting multiple domains and without any functional disability,” says Dr. Kumar. It’s often tied to sleep issues like delayed sleep initiation or fragmented rest.

On the other hand, “Cognitive disability related to a brain tumor may affect one or more specific cognitive domains, tends to persist, and comes with functional disability,” he adds. You may also notice seizures, limb weakness, or trouble with routine tasks.

<h4>Clumsiness and Loss of Balance: When It’s Not Just Fatigue</h4>

Occasional clumsiness may seem harmless, especially during hectic workweeks. However, if it progresses to frequent falls, a noticeable decline in coordination, or needing support for routine tasks, don’t ignore it.

Dr. Kumar advises, “See a neurologist if there’s physical disability, frequent falls, need for support in walking, or significant reduction in your day-to-day functional efficiency.”

These may point to disturbances in the brain’s motor control centers, possibly caused by a tumor affecting balance and coordination.

<h4>Sudden Mood Swings or Personality Changes? Take Note</h4>

Stress does affect mood, but a rapid and unexplained shift in personality could be neurological. “Sudden personality changes, if persistent for a few days to weeks, suggest early features of a brain tumor,” says Dr. Kumar.

So, if someone who’s usually calm becomes irritable, withdrawn, or impulsive with no clear reason—and these changes don’t go away, it’s time for a deeper evaluation.

Blurred vision, slurred speech, or trouble finding the right words after a long day might seem like signs of tiredness. But if these symptoms come and go—or worsen—don’t brush them off.

According to Dr. Kumar, watch out for “faster reaction or impulsive behaviour, neck and back pain, early morning back stiffness, fluctuating vision or speech issues, and disturbed sleep patterns.” These are neurological red flags that demand attention.

The key message this World Brain Day is simple: Don’t ignore what your brain is trying to tell you. While stress is real and widespread, persistent or unusual symptoms—especially if they’re affecting your daily life—deserve a professional checkup.

As Dr. Kumar sums it up, “Early detection can significantly improve outcomes in <span>brain tumors</span>. When in doubt, get it checked out.”

brain day 2025

health and wellness

brain tumors

brain health

world brain day 2025

Every year, World Brain Day is marked to raise awareness around brain health and neurological conditions that often go undiagnosed or misunderstood. This year’s theme focuses on brain health and early detection, emphasizing how subtle signs—often brushed off as routine stress—may actually be the brain’s way of raising an alarm.While stress-related fatigue, burnout, and tension headaches are all-too-common in today’s never-resting, always hustling world, experts warn that dismissing persistent or unusual neurological symptoms as “just stress” could delay diagnosis of something more serious, such as a brain tumor.We spoke with Dr. Mukesh Kumar, Director and Head (Parkinson's Disease Unit), Neurosciences, Neurology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, to understand the difference between stress symptoms and potential red flags.Not All Headaches Are Just “Stress Headaches”Headaches are the most common symptom people link with stress, but not all headaches are created equal. Dr. Kumar explains, “A worst headache in the morning may be a feature of subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH), which is a medical emergency. Stress headaches are usually mild to moderate and without vomiting. SAH is usually very severe and comes with nausea or vomiting.”He adds that if your headache feels significantly different from your usual ones, especially if it’s persistent, worsening over time, or most intense after waking up, it’s worth seeking a neurological opinion.Brain Fog vs. Brain Tumor-Linked Cognitive SymptomsFeeling mentally scattered, struggling to focus, or forgetting things easily? It could be burnout, but not always.“Brain fog due to burnout is usually transient, affecting multiple domains and without any functional disability,” says Dr. Kumar. It’s often tied to sleep issues like delayed sleep initiation or fragmented rest.On the other hand, “Cognitive disability related to a brain tumor may affect one or more specific cognitive domains, tends to persist, and comes with functional disability,” he adds. You may also notice seizures, limb weakness, or trouble with routine tasks.Clumsiness and Loss of Balance: When It’s Not Just FatigueOccasional clumsiness may seem harmless, especially during hectic workweeks. However, if it progresses to frequent falls, a noticeable decline in coordination, or needing support for routine tasks, don’t ignore it.Dr. Kumar advises, “See a neurologist if there’s physical disability, frequent falls, need for support in walking, or significant reduction in your day-to-day functional efficiency.”These may point to disturbances in the brain’s motor control centers, possibly caused by a tumor affecting balance and coordination.Sudden Mood Swings or Personality Changes? Take NoteStress does affect mood, but a rapid and unexplained shift in personality could be neurological. “Sudden personality changes, if persistent for a few days to weeks, suggest early features of a brain tumor,” says Dr. Kumar.So, if someone who’s usually calm becomes irritable, withdrawn, or impulsive with no clear reason—and these changes don’t go away, it’s time for a deeper evaluation.Vision and Speech FluctuationsBlurred vision, slurred speech, or trouble finding the right words after a long day might seem like signs of tiredness. But if these symptoms come and go—or worsen—don’t brush them off.According to Dr. Kumar, watch out for “faster reaction or impulsive behaviour, neck and back pain, early morning back stiffness, fluctuating vision or speech issues, and disturbed sleep patterns.” These are neurological red flags that demand attention.Listen to Your BrainThe key message this World Brain Day is simple: Don’t ignore what your brain is trying to tell you. While stress is real and widespread, persistent or unusual symptoms—especially if they’re affecting your daily life—deserve a professional checkup.As Dr. Kumar sums it up, “Early detection can significantly improve outcomes in brain tumors. When in doubt, get it checked out.”

signs of brain tumors you might be dismissing as “just stress”

What is Coeliac Disease That Affects 2 Million People in the U.S. Each Year?

what is coeliac disease that affects 2 million people in the u.s. each year?

Did You Know? These Surprising Body Parts Could Reveal the First Signs of High Cholesterol

did you know? these surprising body parts could reveal the first signs of high cholesterol

An j8-year-old Myrtle Beach boy has <span>Lyme disease</span> and his parents are doing everything they can to treat him, so he could have a "normal childhood", reports News13. 

As per the National Library of Medicine, USA, <span>Lyme</span> disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is an infectious condition, which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. This is primarily caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi in the United States and various Borrelia species in Europe and Asia.

<h4>How Was The Child Diagnosed With Lyme Disease?</h4>

The parents, LeeAnn and Brian Kuhl, said that their son, Ben, one day came home with a tick bite on his belly button after a hike he went on four years go. He was four at that time. 

The doctors had told the Kuhls that since Ben's tick bite did not have a bullseye on it, there was nothing to be concerned about. Therefore, Lyme disease was not even something in their mind. However, things changed soon, and Ben was diagnosed. 

By the time he was diagnosed, the disease had spread to all Ben's organs, including his brain. He was only able to talk on some days, his motor functions also worsened. He now has a very painful inflammation, and spends most of his time indoors. 

“You mourn the life that he was supposed to have, so you mourn the parent that you were supposed to be,” LeeAnn said.

The parents also share that his symptoms have affected his friendships with other children. “I see the frustration when he can’t play with them because they’re at a faster pace now than he is,” LeeAnn said. “It’s sad because, when they’re all goofing around, he wants to be in there, too, but he can’t talk to them.”

The National Library of Medicine notes that this disease typically develops in three stages: early localized, early disseminated, and late stage. Early signs often include a telltale “bull’s-eye” rash (erythema migrans), along with fever and fatigue. 

Without treatment, the infection can spread, affecting the nervous system, heart, and joints. In its late stage, it may cause chronic arthritis and brain-related issues, highlighting the critical need for early detection and timely treatment.

However, the treatment is not cheap. The Kuhls told News13 that they spend hundreds of dollars per month and that not all his medicines are covered by insurance. In fact, Brian has started working two jobs, and is sill looking for more work. 

The Kuhls told News13 that they have found a community in Myrtle Beach who are helping them with Ben's treatment. 

“We had all these people coming to us and offering to pay for a month of supplements or offering services to him,” LeeAnn said. “Without them, we could not be where we are right now.”

While Ben will always be affected by this disease, there is a hope that he will eventually be in full remission. Till then, they are not giving up on their hopes to see their child healthy. 

“He is going to be such a testimony on not giving up,” LeeAnn said. “We tell him every day, ‘you’re going to stand there one day, and you’re going to speak to a bunch of people who are going through something, and you’re going to tell them what God did for you.’”

The early signs shows somewhere between 3 to 30 days after tick bite, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA (CDC). 

<h5>Fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes may occur in the absence of rash</h5><h5>Erythema migrans (EM) rash:</h5>

<ul><li>Occurs in approximately 70 to 80 percent of infected people</li><li>Begins at the site of a tick bite after a delay of 3 to 30 days (average is about 7 days)</li><li>Expands gradually over several days reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) or more across</li><li>May feel warm to the touch but is rarely itchy or painful</li><li>Sometimes clears as it enlarges, resulting in a target or "bull's-eye" appearance</li><li>May appear on any area of the body</li><li>Does not always appear as a "classic bull's-eye" rash</li></ul>

Later signs, which may come after a month of being bitten, notes CDC are: 

<ul><li>Severe headaches and neck stiffness</li><li>Additional EM rashes on other areas of the body</li><li>Facial palsy (loss of muscle tone or droop on one or both sides of the face)</li><li>Arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling, particularly the knees and other large joints.</li><li>Intermittent pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bones</li><li>Heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis)</li><li>Episodes of dizziness or shortness of breath</li><li>Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord</li><li>Nerve pain</li><li>Shooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet</li></ul>

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lyme

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lyme disease myrtle beach

An j8-year-old Myrtle Beach boy has Lyme disease and his parents are doing everything they can to treat him, so he could have a "normal childhood", reports News13. As per the National Library of Medicine, USA, Lyme disease, also known as Lyme borreliosis, is an infectious condition, which is transmitted through the bite of infected ticks. This is primarily caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi in the United States and various Borrelia species in Europe and Asia.How Was The Child Diagnosed With Lyme Disease?The parents, LeeAnn and Brian Kuhl, said that their son, Ben, one day came home with a tick bite on his belly button after a hike he went on four years go. He was four at that time. The doctors had told the Kuhls that since Ben's tick bite did not have a bullseye on it, there was nothing to be concerned about. Therefore, Lyme disease was not even something in their mind. However, things changed soon, and Ben was diagnosed. By the time he was diagnosed, the disease had spread to all Ben's organs, including his brain. He was only able to talk on some days, his motor functions also worsened. He now has a very painful inflammation, and spends most of his time indoors. “You mourn the life that he was supposed to have, so you mourn the parent that you were supposed to be,” LeeAnn said.The parents also share that his symptoms have affected his friendships with other children. “I see the frustration when he can’t play with them because they’re at a faster pace now than he is,” LeeAnn said. “It’s sad because, when they’re all goofing around, he wants to be in there, too, but he can’t talk to them.”The Progression Of Lyme DiseaseThe National Library of Medicine notes that this disease typically develops in three stages: early localized, early disseminated, and late stage. Early signs often include a telltale “bull’s-eye” rash (erythema migrans), along with fever and fatigue. Without treatment, the infection can spread, affecting the nervous system, heart, and joints. In its late stage, it may cause chronic arthritis and brain-related issues, highlighting the critical need for early detection and timely treatment.However, the treatment is not cheap. The Kuhls told News13 that they spend hundreds of dollars per month and that not all his medicines are covered by insurance. In fact, Brian has started working two jobs, and is sill looking for more work. The Kuhls told News13 that they have found a community in Myrtle Beach who are helping them with Ben's treatment. “We had all these people coming to us and offering to pay for a month of supplements or offering services to him,” LeeAnn said. “Without them, we could not be where we are right now.”While Ben will always be affected by this disease, there is a hope that he will eventually be in full remission. Till then, they are not giving up on their hopes to see their child healthy. “He is going to be such a testimony on not giving up,” LeeAnn said. “We tell him every day, ‘you’re going to stand there one day, and you’re going to speak to a bunch of people who are going through something, and you’re going to tell them what God did for you.’”Early Signs Of Lyme DiseaseThe early signs shows somewhere between 3 to 30 days after tick bite, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, USA (CDC). The signs and symptoms include:Fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes may occur in the absence of rashErythema migrans (EM) rash:Occurs in approximately 70 to 80 percent of infected peopleBegins at the site of a tick bite after a delay of 3 to 30 days (average is about 7 days)Expands gradually over several days reaching up to 12 inches (30 cm) or more acrossMay feel warm to the touch but is rarely itchy or painfulSometimes clears as it enlarges, resulting in a target or "bull's-eye" appearanceMay appear on any area of the bodyDoes not always appear as a "classic bull's-eye" rashLater signs, which may come after a month of being bitten, notes CDC are: Severe headaches and neck stiffnessAdditional EM rashes on other areas of the bodyFacial palsy (loss of muscle tone or droop on one or both sides of the face)Arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling, particularly the knees and other large joints.Intermittent pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bonesHeart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis)Episodes of dizziness or shortness of breathInflammation of the brain and spinal cordNerve painShooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet

family shares how a lyme disease misdiagnosis cost their son's childhood

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