Overview of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. It commonly starts with flu-like symptoms and a bullseye-shaped rash, but can progress to more severe complications if left untreated. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can lead to full recovery in most cases.

Types of Lyme Disease

1. Early Localized Lyme Disease: Appears within days to weeks after a tick bite; symptoms are mild and usually include rash and fever.

2. Early Disseminated Lyme Disease: Bacteria begin to spread throughout the body, potentially affecting the heart and nervous system.

3. Late Disseminated Lyme Disease: Can occur months or even years later, leading to chronic symptoms affecting joints, brain, and nerves.

4. Chronic Lyme Disease (Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome): Symptoms such as fatigue and pain persist even after treatment.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Bullseye rash (erythema migrans) at the bite site

Fever, chills, headache and fatigue

Muscle and joint aches

Swollen lymph nodes

Numbness, tingling, or memory issues in later stages

Facial palsy or drooping

Irregular heartbeat in disseminated stages

Causes of Lyme Disease

Caused by Borrelia bacteria, primarily B. burgdorferi

Transmitted by the bite of infected black-legged (Ixodes) ticks

Ticks become infected by feeding on infected animals like deer and rodents

Complications in Lyme Disease

Neurological issues (meningitis, facial paralysis)

Arthritis, especially in large joints like knees

Heart rhythm irregularities

Cognitive issues such as memory loss

Chronic fatigue and musculoskeletal pain

Risk Factors of Lyme Disease

Spending time in grassy or wooded areas

Having exposed skin outdoors

Not removing ticks promptly

Living in or traveling to tick-endemic areas (northeastern and upper Midwest USA)

Outdoor pets can also carry ticks indoors

Preventions of Lyme Disease

Use insect repellents containing DEET or permethrin

Wear long sleeves and pants in tick-prone areas

Conduct full-body tick checks after outdoor activities

Shower soon after being outdoors

Keep lawns well-trimmed to reduce tick habitats

Vaccines for dogs are available; a human vaccine is in development