- The most common symptoms of Lyme disease include a small rash around the bite area (bull's-eye), flu-like symptoms, joint pain, numbness, memory loss and temporary facial paralysis.
- A bacterium called Borrelia burgdorfer causes Lyme disease; deer ticks transmit this particular bacterium when they feed on the blood of humans or animals.
- Because symptoms of Lyme disease can easily mimic other conditions such as fibromyalgia, depression and joint disorders, doctors may misdiagnose the condition. Pinpointing Lyme disease involves a series of tests to check for specific antibodies that point to the illness.
- Antibiotics are commonly used to treat the symptoms of Lyme disease. Oral antibiotics are effective during the early stages, whereas intravenous antibiotics are useful for late-stage Lyme disease. In some instances, symptoms of the disease will linger even after treatment.
- Early treatment is imperative with Lyme disease. If you notice a tick bite and begin to experience symptoms of Lyme disease, seek immediate medical attention.
