Lyme Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is one of the most common vector-borne illnesses in the United States and many parts of the world. Transmitted by the bite of infected black-legged ticks (often called deer ticks), this condition can affect the skin, joints, nervous system, and even the heart if left untreated. Early detection and treatment are essential to avoid long-term complications. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for Lyme disease.
What is Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and, less commonly, Borrelia mayonii. These bacteria are transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks. The ticks that carry Lyme disease are typically very small—about the size of a poppy seed—making them easy to miss.
The disease was first identified in Lyme, Connecticut in the 1970s, which is how it got its name. Today, it is the most frequently reported tick-borne illness in the Northern Hemisphere.
How Lyme Disease Spreads
Not all ticks carry Lyme disease, but black-legged ticks are the primary carriers. Infection occurs when:
An infected tick attaches to the skin and feeds on blood.
The tick remains attached for 36 to 48 hours or longer.
Bacteria travel from the tick into the human bloodstream.
Pets such as dogs and cats can also carry ticks indoors, increasing human exposure.
Risk Factors for Lyme Disease
You may be at higher risk of Lyme disease if you:
Spend time in wooded, grassy, or brushy areas.
Live in or visit areas where Lyme disease is common (such as the northeastern, upper midwestern, and Pacific coastal regions of the U.S.).
Fail to use tick repellent or protective clothing outdoors.
Have pets that roam in tick-prone environments.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease
Symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection.
Early Signs (3–30 days after bite):
Erythema migrans (EM rash): A circular “bull’s-eye” rash expanding outward from the bite site.
Flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Early Disseminated Stage (days to weeks):
Multiple EM rashes in different parts of the body.
Severe headaches and stiff neck.
Facial palsy (drooping on one or both sides of the face).
Pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bones.
Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis).
Late Stage (months to years):
Severe joint pain and swelling, particularly in the knees.
Neurological issues such as numbness, tingling, memory problems, or difficulty concentrating.
Chronic fatigue.
Diagnosis of Lyme Disease
Diagnosing Lyme disease can be challenging because its symptoms mimic other conditions. A dermatology or medical provider may use:
Clinical evaluation – examining the skin rash and symptoms.
Blood tests – including ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) and Western blot test to confirm infection.
Rule-out testing – to distinguish Lyme disease from conditions like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment.
Treatment of Lyme Disease
Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics (such as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime) are the first-line treatment for early-stage Lyme disease.
Intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe cases involving the central nervous system or heart.
Symptom Management
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications can ease muscle and joint pain.
Rest and hydration support recovery.
Most patients recover completely with early antibiotic treatment. However, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms, known as Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS).
Complications of Untreated Lyme Disease
If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause:
Chronic joint inflammation (Lyme arthritis).
Neurological problems (memory loss, nerve pain, meningitis).
Heart rhythm irregularities.
Persistent fatigue and reduced quality of life.
Prevention of Lyme Disease
Since there is no vaccine currently available for Lyme disease, prevention is the best protection:
Apply insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin.
Wear long sleeves, long pants, and closed shoes when outdoors.
Stay on clear paths and avoid tall grass or brush.
Perform tick checks after spending time outdoors, especially on the scalp, behind the ears, armpits, waistline, and knees.
Remove ticks promptly with fine-tipped tweezers by pulling straight out without twisting.
When to See a Provider
Seek medical attention if you:
Develop a bull’s-eye rash or multiple unexplained rashes.
Experience flu-like symptoms after a tick bite.
Notice neurological changes, joint pain, or irregular heartbeats.
At My Skin St. Pete and My Skin Bradenton, Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC, with 8 years of dermatology experience, offers comprehensive evaluation and care for skin-related conditions, including tick bites and suspicious rashes that may signal Lyme disease. Early treatment leads to the best outcomes.
Final Thoughts
Lyme disease is preventable, treatable, and manageable when detected early. Understanding how it spreads, recognizing symptoms, and seeking prompt medical care are key to avoiding long-term complications. With the right preventive strategies and professional support, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the impact of this condition.
Disclaimer:
The information on this website is provided for educational and information purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a licensed medical provider and follow their recommendations regardless of what you read on this website. If you think you are having a medical emergency, dial 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. Links to other third-party websites are provided for your convenience only. If you decide to access any of the third-party websites, you do so entirely at your own risk and subject to the terms of use for those websites. Neither My Skin by Leah Michel, APRN, FNP-BC, nor any contributor to this website, makes any representation, express or implied, regarding the information provided on this website or any information you may access on a third-party website using a link. Use of this website does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you would like to request an appointment with a health care provider, please call our office at (727) 295-7223.
