What is Lyme Disease?

Lyme disease is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, commonly known as deer ticks. These ticks are prevalent in wooded and grassy areas, making outdoor enthusiasts particularly susceptible.

Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Symptoms can vary depending on the stage of infection:

• Early Signs (3–30 days after tick bite):
• Fever and chills
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Muscle and joint aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Erythema migrans (EM) rash: a red, expanding rash that may resemble a bull’s-eye
• Later Signs (days to months after tick bite):
• Severe headaches and neck stiffness
• Additional EM rashes on other areas of the body
• Arthritis with severe joint pain and swelling, particularly in the knees
• Facial palsy (loss of muscle tone or droop on one or both sides of the face)
• Intermittent pain in tendons, muscles, joints, and bones
• Heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat (Lyme carditis)
• Episodes of dizziness or shortness of breath
• Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord
• Nerve pain
• Shooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet
• Problems with short-term memory

Diagnosis and Testing

If you suspect Lyme disease, our medical providers will perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: Assessing symptoms and potential exposure to tick habitats.
• Laboratory Testing: Blood tests to detect antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi.

It’s important to note that antibody tests may not detect Lyme disease in its early stages. Therefore, clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and exposure history is crucial.

Treatment Options

Early-stage Lyme disease is typically treated with a course of oral antibiotics, such as doxycycline or amoxicillin. For those with neurological or cardiac involvement, intravenous antibiotics may be necessary. Prompt treatment usually leads to full recovery.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Visit Liberty Urgent Care if you:

• Have been bitten by a tick and are unsure if it was removed properly.
• Develop symptoms consistent with Lyme disease.
• Notice a rash or other signs of infection after a tick bite.

Early intervention is key to preventing serious health issues.

Prevention Tips

To reduce your risk of Lyme disease:

• Wear protective clothing when in wooded or grassy areas.
• Use insect repellents containing DEET on skin and permethrin on clothing.
• Perform thorough tick checks after outdoor activities.
• Shower soon after being outdoors to wash off unattached ticks.
• Keep your yard well-maintained to reduce tick habitats.

Visit Liberty Urgent Care for Lyme Disease Care

If you suspect Lyme disease or have been bitten by a tick, don’t wait. Our experienced medical team is here to provide prompt evaluation and treatment. Walk into Liberty Urgent Care today for comprehensive care and peace of mind.