Lyme disease is a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia burgdorferi, transmitted through the bite of infected ticks, primarily Ixodes species common in wooded areas across North America and Europe.
Symptoms of Lyme Disease
Symptoms progress through stages:
- Early localized stage: bull’s‑eye rash (erythema migrans), fever, fatigue, headache, and muscle aches.
- Early disseminated stage: joint pain, facial palsy, meningitis symptoms, and heart palpitations.
- Late stage: persistent arthritis, cognitive fog, debilitating fatigue, and neurologic complications.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, exposure history, and blood tests (ELISA and Western blot). In early phases, medical professionals may treat based on clinical diagnosis before lab confirmation.
Treatment
Standard treatment includes oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or amoxicillin. In more severe cases affecting the heart or nervous system, intravenous antibiotics may be required.
Long-Term Effects
Between 5% and 20% of patients develop Post‑Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS), which includes ongoing fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and cognitive difficulties lasting months or even years despite treatment.
Prevention
- Avoid tick-infested areas like dense woods or tall grass.
- Wear long sleeves and use EPA-registered insect repellent (with DEET or picaridin).
- Perform full-body tick checks after outdoor exposure and remove ticks promptly (within 36 hours) using fine-tipped tweezers.
Pop icon Justin Timberlake was diagnosed with Lyme disease, which reportedly affected both his health and performance schedule. To learn how this condition has influenced his career and personal well‑being, read the full story here: Discover how Lyme disease impacted Justin Timberlake 👈
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