Lyme disease is an illness caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and is mainly transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, also known as deer ticks. It’s mostly found in the northeastern and upper midwestern regions of the United States, as well as in parts of Europe and Asia where these ticks live. It is called Lyme disease because it was discovered in the Lyme, Connecticut area in 1975

Early symptoms usually appear within 30 days of a tick bite. It’s common to experience redness or itching at the bite site, which is due to irritation from the tick’s saliva and not necessarily a symptom of Lyme disease itself.

Acute Lyme Disease Symptoms:

• Rash:
  • May appear as a bull’s-eye, a red ring with a clear center that may grow to several inches in width
  • Not always itchy or painful
  • Not all rashes resemble a bull’s-eye
• Fever and chills
• Muscle and joint pain
• Stiff neck
• Headache
• Fatigue or weakness

Chronic Lyme Disease Symptoms:

Chronic Lyme disease, also known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS), can develop if Lyme disease is not diagnosed and treated promptly. Symptoms can vary widely and may affect multiple systems of the body, leading to significant impairment in daily functioning.

Some common symptoms of chronic Lyme disease include:

• Persistent fatigue and weakness that may be debilitating
• Widespread pain, including muscle aches and joint pain
• Cognitive difficulties, such as memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating (referred to as “brain fog”)
• Neurological symptoms, including headaches, tingling or numbness in the extremities, and facial paralysis
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness
• Mood changes, including depression, anxiety, and irritability
• Digestive problems, such as nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea
• Sensory disturbances, such as heightened sensitivity to touch, pain, or temperature changes
• Heart palpitations or shortness of breath
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Vision problems, including blurred vision, eye pain, or sensitivity to light
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or hearing loss
• Hormonal imbalances leading to menstrual irregularities, hot flashes, or thyroid dysfunction
• Respiratory symptoms, such as cough, shortness of breath, or chest discomfort
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Skin changes, such as rashes, hives, or skin sensitivity
• Intolerance to exercise or exertion, often leading to increased fatigue and malaise
• Difficulty regulating body temperature, leading to excessive sweating or chills

Chronic Lyme disease can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and may require comprehensive treatment approaches, including antibiotics, supportive therapies, and lifestyle modifications.