A LEDBURY woman diagnosed with Lyme disease says her life has been transformed since getting in touch with an American chiropractor making a visit to the UK next month.

Carol Smith was diagnosed with the disease last April but says she believes she has suffered from the condition for the majority of her life.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection spread to humans by infected ticks - spider-like creatures found in woodland areas.

"I know I contracted it as a child," the Much Marcle resident said.

"I first collapsed when I was 20 at university.

"In my 20s I rarely left the house as I was too ill. At the age of 27 I realised the beta blockers I was on were making me worse and weaned off them.

"At that point I was able to get my first job, three afternoons a week, and start having a social life."

Over the years the 60-year-old says she has became frustrated as GPs struggled to diagnose her illness.

But it a collapse three years ago then promoted her to take action.

"I collapsed again, to the extent I was bed bound virtually. Every inch of me was shaking, I could barely stand, I'd lost my voice because I was so weak and couldn't breathe properly.

"At that point I hit the internet and started reading and learning."

Ms Smith says she ordered a test for Lyme disease from America, which tested positive, then got in touch with American practitioner, Dr Jess Armine.

The 60-year-old said her life has been transformed through the treatment she has received from Dr Armine, who specialises in alternative medicine.

"He has helped me more than I can describe - symptoms I have had for 40 years are disappearing," she said.

"The burning pain in my feet, lower legs and arms has gone. People have said to me 'you are making it up'."

Ms Smith recommends anyone in a similar position to carry out the research, and not to give up as "help is out there".

As Ms Smith is determined others get the help she received, she is helping to publicise the consultancy sessions being run by Dr Jess Armine, which are being held at Hellens Manor in Much Marcle between February 15 and 18.

For more details, or to book an appointment, call Ms Smith on 01531 660440.