Tick-borne illnesses causing tiredness epidemic across U.S.

“Lyme cases have been reported from all 50 states,” says neurologist Elena Frid, M.D., a Lyme expert in New York City. And the number of cases is expected to rise: In Ohio, which isn’t even on the CDC’s list of worst Lyme states, a growing tick population has resulted in a 360 percent increase in cases since 2010. Women over 45 are most at risk since immune response wanes with age, so the body is less able to fight off the bacteria.

Lyme isn’t the only health-sapping bacteria ticks transmit. “At least 80 percent of my patients are co-infected with babesiosis, and many also suffer from bartonellosis and other infections,” says Richard Horowitz, M.D., author of

Why Can’t I Get Better? These infections cause similar symptoms (fog, fatigue, aches) but different blood tests are needed to detect them, and different remedies may be needed to treat them.

If you suspect a tick-borne illness, treatment that targets the specific bacteria is key to a fast, full recovery. Dr. Frid advises using the ILADS.org search to find a Lyme-literate physician, and asking your doctor to test your blood through a specialty lab (like IGeneX) that identifies more strains of tick bacteria.

To prevent infection, take steps now—risk peaks in June and July. Experts’ top tip to reduce bites by 80 percent: Spray clothes and shoes with permethrin before spending time in wooded areas. Once back at home, immediately put clothes in the dryer on high heat for 15 minutes to kill any ticks.

Homes with a dog or cat are twice as likely to find ticks on family members and should consider a pet-safe tick repellent like the Bayer Seresto Collar. Also: Brush pets over a white sheet so it’s easier to spot and dispose of ticks after coming indoors. For more tips, visit TickEncounter.org.