Lyme Disease

Overview

This is a bacterial infection you get from a tick bite. It can spread through your body, causing flu-like symptoms. In some people, it can cause problems that last a long time.

Causes

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium "Borrelia burgdorferi." It's carried by tiny ticks commonly known as "deer ticks." They are found in the eastern United States. If an infected tick bites you, the bacterium can infect you.

Early Symptoms

An infection often begins with a red rash that forms over the site of your tick bite. The rash expands outward in a circle. It can form a bullseye pattern. In the early stages of infection, you may also have a fever, chills and swollen lymph nodes. You may have a headache, and aches in your joints and muscles. You may feel tired.

Later Symptoms

As your infection progresses, you may have a wide range of other symptoms. These can include memory problems and severe headaches. You may feel pain in your muscles, joints and bones. You may have problems with the nerves in your face, hands and feet. And you may have an irregular heartbeat, dizziness or shortness of breath. And you may develop other rashes.

Treatment

Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics. You may need medications to treat the pain, too. Most people, when treated promptly, recover quickly and completely. Your healthcare provider can create a plan that's right for you.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.