Latest news with #Babesia
New York Post
27-06-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Fitness influencer, 31, left paralyzed from tick bite: ‘My body completely gave up'
A popular fitness influencer was left paralyzed after a tick bite left her 'trapped in unbearable pain.' Maria Palen, 31, said she is learning to walk again after the rare condition left her unable to move her legs — prompting her to 'lose' a year of her life. 'The most progress that we've seen is within the last month, where my steps are getting better, and I can do side steps,' she told People, adding that she's still unable to bend her knees. 4 A popular fitness influencer was left paralyzed after a tick bite left her 'trapped in unbearable pain.' Kennedy News & Media Palen first shared her story on social media in September 2024, telling her Instagram followers that the condition 'started with small aches, tiny pains that most people might ignore.' The content creator said that her 'body completely gave up' on her in March 2024 — leaving her entirely bedridden. 'Why was my body failing me? I've always lived a healthy lifestyle, this didn't make any sense,' she said on social media at the time. 'It quickly became clear that this wasn't something I could fix with a balanced diet or exercise.' The California native told the outlet that doctors were initially convinced that she had an autoimmune disease; however, this was later proven to be incorrect. According to the social media star, tiny organisms called Babesia had entered her bloodstream via a tick bite. Her red blood cells were targeted as a result. 'It completely shattered my immune system,' she said on social media. 'It became so bad that something as simple as locking my phone or turning my car's wheel became moments of agony.' The condition affects fewer than 3,000 people per year in the US, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 4 Maria Palen, 31, said she is learning to walk again after the rare condition left her unable to move her legs. Kennedy News & Media 4 The content creator said that her 'body completely gave up' on her in March 2024. Kennedy News & Media In an Instagram video shared in December 2024, Palen told her 23.7 followers that before her body became paralyzed, her tailbone began to ache. Days later, she found it impossible to sit through meetings or even stand for long periods of time. 'Once the pain meds kicked in at the hospital, my legs started going numb,' she said. 'First the left, then the right, until it crept all the way up to my belly button.' Start your day with all you need to know Morning Report delivers the latest news, videos, photos and more. Thanks for signing up! Enter your email address Please provide a valid email address. By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Never miss a story. Check out more newsletters 'Turns out my spinal fluid was loaded with white blood cells. Something was definitely attacking my spinal cord and even now, doctors can't pinpoint exactly what it was,' she added. A GoFundMe page, which was set up in January to support Palen's recovery, has since raised more than $12,000. 4 According to the social media star, tiny organisms called Babesia had entered her bloodstream via a tick bite. Her red blood cells were targeted as a result. Chalabala – 'Her savings are depleted and medical bills continue to pile up,' the fundraiser page read. 'Having lost her apartment and career due to the longevity of her illness, Maria is currently living with family in Texas.' According to the page, doctors had given Palen 'a 33% chance of full recovery, 33% chance of partial recovery, or a 33% chance of no recovery at all.'
Time of India
26-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
She was in peak shape, then a tick bite left her paralysed: What we need to keep in mind when going outdoors
Image credit: Instagram/planthlete_maria Maria Palen was everything one might imagine when picturing a fitness inspiration. A 31-year-old chemical engineer from California, she followed a clean, plant-based diet, exercised regularly, and even gathered over 20,000 followers on Instagram for her transformation journey. But in a twist no one saw coming, her story shifted from fitness triumph to a health nightmare. After months of unexplained joint pain, swelling, and fatigue, Maria was diagnosed with babesiosis, an infection caused by parasites transmitted through tick bites. By late 2024, she had become paralysed from the waist down. Her journey reminds us that sometimes the body can look perfectly healthy on the outside, but something invisible is quietly waging a war inside. More than a health scare, Maria's story is a wake-up call about the hidden dangers of tick-borne illnesses, especially for those who love spending time in nature. What really happened to Maria? At first, the signs were mild, some inflammation, joint discomfort, and a nagging pain in her thumb. Like many would, she tried to manage it naturally by switching to a cleaner diet and ramping up exercise. But instead of getting better, the symptoms worsened. By March 2024, she was bedridden. Every day tasks like locking a phone or opening a tuna can became a struggle. Eventually, a functional medicine specialist diagnosed her with babesiosis, a lesser-known tick-borne disease caused by Babesia parasites that infect red blood cells. Unlike the more commonly known Lyme disease, babesiosis often goes undetected because its early signs mimic flu or fatigue. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of babesiosis have doubled over the last decade, jumping from 1,000 in 2011 to around 2,500 annually today. Maria believes the tick bite may have happened years ago, possibly while hiking outdoors, and went unnoticed. Over time, the infection progressed, eventually affecting her nervous system. By October 2024, she was unable to sit due to extreme tailbone pain. Soon after, paralysis set in. Not all dangers wear a warning label Tick bites often go unnoticed. They're small, painless, and easy to miss. What's more concerning is how long some infections can lie dormant. Maria's story is not a case of being careless; it's a case of how little is known or spoken about lesser-known tick-borne diseases like babesiosis. Ticks are most active in warmer months and tend to thrive in grassy or wooded areas. The 2024 tick season in the US was one of the worst in recent memory, as milder winters led to more animals surviving, especially those that serve as hosts to ticks. According to researchers at the University of California, Riverside, this rise in tick populations also increases the risk of rare infections spreading quietly. The microbes that cause babesiosis (Babesia microti and B. duncani) are tricky to detect because they hide inside red blood cells. Recent research decoding the genome of B. duncani even shows it behaves similarly to the parasite behind malaria, explaining why symptoms can include fever, chills, and muscle aches before turning severe. (Pic courtesy: iStock) Lessons from Maria's experience that can't be ignored What stands out about Maria's story is not just the tragedy, but her resilience. Despite eight hours of therapy every week, she remains hopeful about regaining sensation in her legs. But her experience underlines something crucial: Early detection can make all the difference. Doctors often test for Lyme disease when tick-borne illness is suspected, but babesiosis is not always on their radar. And since it can coexist with Lyme, symptoms may be wrongly attributed. That's why it's vital for healthcare providers to broaden their approach and for individuals to track any unexplained changes in energy, muscle strength, or chronic pain, especially after spending time outdoors. And it's not just about hiking or camping. Even gardening in overgrown backyards or walking through wooded areas can pose risks, especially when protective clothing or tick repellents are not used. Metabolic Syndrome & Obesity: What You Need to Know Real precautions that matter, beyond the basics Most lists mention "wear long sleeves" or "check for ticks." But Maria's case urges a deeper look: Clothing isn't just a barrier, it's a tool. Opting for light-coloured clothes can help spot ticks faster. Also, tucking pants into socks is not just a strange fashion tip, it creates a physical barrier from ground-level brush where ticks often lurk. Routine checks must include overlooked areas. Ticks love warm, hidden places, behind ears, under arms, behind knees, along the hairline, and even between toes. Not all repellents are created equal. The CDC recommends using EPA-registered repellents with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Natural alternatives like citronella may smell nice, but they're often ineffective against disease-carrying ticks. Outdoor wear deserves a separate space. Clothes worn in forested or grassy areas should be removed immediately upon entering the house and washed in hot water. Ticks can survive on fabrics and hitchhike into beds and sofas. Never ignore unexplained fatigue, swelling, or recurring body pain. These signs may not be 'just stress' or 'overexertion.' If they linger, blood tests can help identify hidden infections early. [This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For any symptoms or health concerns, please consult a licensed healthcare provider]
The Hill
08-06-2025
- Health
- The Hill
Lyme-disease isn't the only tick-borne threat. Doctors warn these other diseases are spreading
(NEXSTAR) – You've likely heard public health officials' repeated pleas to check yourself, your kids and your pets for tick bites, which can spread serious diseases. While Lyme disease gets the most attention – and affects the most people – there are other tick-borne bacteria and diseases that have also been found spreading in the U.S. Just last month, Connecticut researchers said they identified the first case of a longhorned tick infected with a pathogen called ehrlichia chaffeensis. Infections can give people fever chills, headaches, muscle aches and stomach issues. 'We also worry about a parasite called Babesia, which causes a disease called Babesiosis,' said Nicole Baumgarth, a professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, in a recent briefing on tick-borne illnesses. The same ticks that carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease can carry this parasite, which then infects people's red blood cells, causing anemia and other 'very serious consequences,' Baumgarth said. Some people infected by the parasite may feel flu-like symptoms, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while others may have no symptoms at all. That's a problem if people live with the parasite and then donate their infected blood, which can cause harm to the people who receive it as a transfusion. Baumgarth also warned of viruses that can be spread by ticks, such as tick-borne encephalitis. It's an infection that can cause inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. It's a bigger problem in Europe than in the U.S., she said, but here we have Heartland virus and Powassan virus to contend with. 'Both viruses are still very rare, but we have seen our first case of Heartland virus in Maryland last year, and the fact that we are now seeing these virus infections in areas that we haven't seen them before, it probably indicates the tip of the iceberg,' said Baumgarth. Because these viruses are rarer, and their symptoms can be non-specific, doctors don't usually think to test for them, Baumgarth explained. Many cases of Heartland and Powassan virus could be left uncounted as a result. 'So it would be rare that we diagnose it because we are not looking hard enough for it right now,' she said. Both viruses can present with generic first symptoms like fever, headache and vomiting, but can cause serious illness if left unchecked. Powassan virus could lead to seizures, loss of coordination and confusion in severe cases where the brain and spinal cord are impacted. Yet another concern is the tick that can cause people to become allergic to red meat if they're bitten. It's called alpha-gal syndrome and is caused by bites from the Lone Star tick, first identified in Texas. However, this type of tick is 'very aggressively' moving north and becoming a problem in other regions of the country, according to Baumgarth. Some of these rare viruses don't have a treatment or cure, so prevention is what's most important, the CDC says. You should avoid ticks by wearing long sleeves and pants in bushy and wooded areas, using bug repellent, and doing a thorough tick check after spending time outside.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
OrthoCarolina Provides Life-Changing Care to Young Woman Battling Late-Stage Lyme Disease
After 18 joint replacement and reconstruction surgeries, Meghan Bradshaw finds relief and renewed mobility through comprehensive orthopedic care CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- With its commitment to comprehensive, patient-centered care, OrthoCarolina continues to transform patient lives through world-class orthopedic treatment and musculoskeletal expertise. A powerful testament to this care is the story of 29-year-old Meghan Bradshaw, whose late-stage Lyme disease left her in need of over a dozen joint replacement and reconstruction surgeries. Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: The complexities of Bradshaw's case demanded the expertise of multiple specialists within OrthoCarolina, including a bilateral hip replacement by Dr. John Masonis, bilateral shoulder replacements by Dr. Shadley Schiffern, and multiple hand surgeries by Dr. Glenn Gaston, as well as dedicated support from Physician Assistant Jeff Dabkowski and a consistent clinical team. Beyond surgical intervention, OrthoCarolina also worked to connect Bradshaw with a Lyme disease specialist to help navigate her diagnosis, which had gone untreated for years. Through OrthoCarolina's holistic approach, which emphasizes the entire patient experience, Bradshaw was able to manage long-term IV antibiotic therapy at home while continuing her orthopedic rehabilitation. "Meghan's case of Lyme arthropathy was one of the most advanced that I've encountered," said Dr. Glenn Gaston, a hand specialist at OrthoCarolina. "She showed extraordinary resilience throughout her entire journey. Our goal wasn't just to restore joint function, but it was also to help give her life back." Bradshaw's health struggles began in 2015 shortly after graduating from college. In 2017, she was misdiagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, seeking treatment through immunosuppressants and chemotherapy. While the treatment masked the symptoms temporarily, it failed to address the underlying cause, thus worsening her condition. By 2019, specialists at the Cleveland Clinic identified the real issue: late-stage Lyme disease, paired with Babesia and Bartonella co-infections. Due to the lack of proper diagnosis and treatment, extensive Lyme-induced joint deterioration had already occurred. "By that time, I had already lost so much function," Bradshaw said. "I needed surgeries every few months just to stay mobile." Between 2017 and 2022, she underwent 11 joint replacements, including bilateral hip and shoulder surgeries and multiple hand reconstructions. OrthoCarolina also facilitated a consultation with a Lyme disease specialist and supported her long-term IV antibiotic therapy from home, coordinated with her family. "After all of these surgeries, my joints feel amazing," Bradshaw added. "OrthoCarolina gave me my future back." Now known as the "Bionic Woman" for her record number of surgeries at such a young age, Bradshaw has become a national advocate for Lyme disease awareness. She has shared her story through media outlets including Today, Business Insider, and numerous health-focused podcasts, and has met with more than 100 members of Congress to champion the needs of those living with tick-borne illnesses. Bradshaw's case highlights not only the life-altering consequences of untreated tick-borne illness but also the importance of early diagnosis and comprehensive orthopedic care. Lyme disease, primarily transmitted by black-legged ticks, can cause serious complications if not detected early, including neurological disorders, cardiovascular issues, and in rare cases, rapid joint deterioration. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly half a million Americans are diagnosed and treated for Lyme disease each year. Early symptoms often include fever, fatigue, and a distinctive "bull's-eye" rash, but misdiagnosis is common, particularly in areas where Lyme disease is less prevalent. "Tick bites can seem harmless, but the long-term effects can be devastating," Bradshaw said. "If sharing my experience helps even one person get diagnosed sooner, it's worth it." For more information about OrthoCarolina's services, visit To learn more about Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses, visit About OrthoCarolinaSince 1922, OrthoCarolina has been a distinguished and reputable physician-owned and physician-led orthopedic practice that prioritizes delivering exceptional patient-centered care and pioneering solutions. An industry leader in orthopedic treatment, research, and education, they provide world-class musculoskeletal care across the Carolinas with 40+ locations and seven Orthopedic Urgent Care Centers. OrthoCarolina consistently pushes the boundaries of medical advancements and actively contributes to the training of new specialists, while working to enhance accessibility to unparalleled orthopedic care. Learn more at View original content: SOURCE OrthoCarolina Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Not Just Lyme: Two other tick-borne illnesses quickly spreading in CNY
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — After a classic Central New York winter and a wet start to spring, most of us are eager to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. But we're not the only ones. As temperatures rise, ticks become more active, and this year is no exception. So, what is different? It's not just Lyme Disease you have to watch out for. Two other tick-borne illnesses are quickly spreading in Central New York, and there's a good chance you've never heard their names. 'Over the past four, five years is where I've started to notice a pretty drastic increase in Anaplasma,' Dr. Kris Paolino, an infectious disease specialist at Upstate University Hospital, said. Dr. Paolino explained that Anaplasma can lead to severe health complications if not caught early. 'I've seen patients end up in the ICU. And every year, you hear about one or two cases that end in an unfortunate death,' Dr. Paolino said. The data tells the same story. In 2019, roughly 2% of the ticks tested at the Upstate Tick Testing Lab carried Anaplasma. In the first few months of 2025, that number jumped to 18%. It's not just infected ticks, as more people are getting sick, too. Between 2016 and 2020, Dr. Paolino treated just two confirmed cases of Anaplasmosis. In 2024 alone, he had 19 confirmed cases. There's no bullseye rash here — with Anaplasmosis, he's on the lookout for other symptoms. 'Really high fevers, severe headaches, lab abnormalities like low white blood cells, or liver abnormalities,' Dr. Paolino said. And there's another disease gaining ground in Central New York: Babesia, a parasite that can cause Babesiosis. Both illnesses can be dangerous, especially for young children and older adults. It's important to note that not all tick bites make you sick, but knowing what the tick is carrying can make a difference. NewsChannel 9's Rachel Polansky learned about it firsthand when she found a tick on her daughter's head. The tick, which she later learned was an engorged female deer tick, had likely been on her daughter's scalp for two days, which is more than enough time to transmit disease. Polansky brought it to the Upstate Tick Testing Lab. The next day, she got the results. The tick carried Anaplasma. Once the pediatrician learned about the testing results, he started Polansky's daughter on a two-week course of antibiotics. 'If it is treated, it's not going to come back again,' said Dr. Saravanan Thangamni, who runs the Upstate Tick Testing Lab. Dr. Thangamani and his team have tested more than 35,000 ticks since 2019. Over one-third of them carried at least one dangerous pathogen. Based on the number of tick submissions this spring, he expects a very busy season ahead. 'Everybody wants to get out. It's the same thing with the ticks. As soon as the ground thaws, ticks come out looking for a host,' Dr. Thangamani added. Thus, how can you protect yourself? Don't let fear keep you indoors. But know the risks — and make tick checks a daily habit. 'We put a seat belt on every time we get in a car, or at least we should. It's a natural thing we do. We should be doing the same thing with tick checks in upstate New York,' Dr. Paolino added. It cost Polansky $20 to get the tick tested. Fees range from $10 to $80, depending on where you live and what pathogens you are testing for. Those in Onondaga County get a discount because of an agreement with the Onondaga County Health Department. Click here to read more about tick testing fees. Insurance doesn't cover tick testing, but it gave Polansky answers, and it helped her daughter's doctor make a quick decision to put her on antibiotics. You can mail ticks to the Upstate Tick Testing Lab or drop them off in person. Click here for more information. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
