Symptoms of Lyme disease vary based on the severity of the case.
This is why it is possible to be unaware that you have Lyme disease.
Lyme disease that goes untreated for many months or years may be harder to treat with antibiotics.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
The more vigilant you are, the better off youll be.
What Causes Lyme Disease?
Lyme disease is carried by the blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick.
This tick is found in the northeastern and upper midwestern United States.
When an infected tick bites you, a bacteria calledBorrelia burgdorferipasses from the tick into your bloodstream.
In order for this to happen, the tick must be attached to you for 36 to 48 hours.
Most people are infected when they’re bitten by immature ticks, which can be difficult to see.
Untreated cases can cause serious problems or lead to a fatal condition.
This stage can begin weeks, months, or years after the tick bite.
Some see relapses of their condition despite treatment, something thats commonly termed chronic Lyme disease.
Theres some debate about why PTLDS occurs in some but not others.
Some believe its an autoimmune response triggered by the original infection.
In addition, there is no consensus on treatment for this condition.
Studies have shown that antibiotic treatments dont help those with this condition.
What signs prompt medical help?
A significantbut shrinkingproportion of those with the disease end up progressing without treatment.
Current estimates are hard to come by.
Knowledge and awareness of this disease have grown over the past couple of decades, greatly improving outcomes.
This improving prognosis is associated with better care and detection, leading to timelier intervention.
With effective medical intervention, this condition is easily and swiftly managed.
Improvements in detection have also caused drastic reductions in associated complications.
Nonetheless, dont hesitate to get help if you suspect you have this condition.
Good communication increases the chances of early detection, leading to timelier and more effective treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, symptoms of Lyme disease can often go unnoticed.
Left untreated, Lyme disease can spread to joints and organs, causing significant damage.
Arthritis, heart disease, and nervous system problems are common complications of untreated Lyme disease.
It is often described as feeling like the flu.
Blood tests are used to confirm a Lyme disease diagnosis.
Blood tests are used to diagnose later stages of Lyme disease.
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