Lyme Disease Symptoms
Lyme Disease Symptoms and Lyme Disease signs can have huge range and be mild to disabling. Find common Early Lyme Disease symptoms and Chronic Lyme disease symptoms & what you can do to manage them or get tested for Lyme Disease. Visit our resources tab for more about testing, treatments, etc.
Chronic Lyme Disease Symptoms
Lyme disease may spread to any part of the body and affect any body system. Typically, it affects more than one body system.
Symptoms may include:
fatigue
muscle pain
other pain
sleep issues
cognitive issues
depression
anxiety
neuropathy
headaches
and many other symptoms
Acute Lyme Disease Symptoms
Lyme Disease Symptoms are similar to flu symptoms.
fever
chills and sweats
muscle aches
fatigue
nausea
Less than half of people with a bite ever show the characteristic bullseye rash.
If Lyme disease is not diagnosed and treated early, it may become late-stage or chronic. This may also occur when early treatment is inadequate.
74% of patients with chronic Lyme reported at least 1 symptom as severe or very severe.
The symptoms of Lyme disease significantly overlap with other serious diseases, such as chronic fatigue, ALS, depression, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Source: https://www.lymedisease.org/lyme-basics/lyme-disease/symptoms/
Do you think you might have Lyme Disease?
This questionnaire was developed by a leading Lyme Disease specialist to help individuals find a clinical diagnosis because testing is so flawed.
Take the digital quiz to see if your symptoms could be Lyme Disease.
Lyme Disease Symptoms: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common symptoms of acute Lyme disease?
Acute Lyme disease refers to the early stage of the infection. Common symptoms include:
Erythema migrans (EM) rash: A bull's-eye rash that expands around the site of the tick bite.
Flu-like symptoms: Fatigue, fever, chills, headache, muscle and joint aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
Neurological symptoms: Bell's palsy (facial muscle weakness), meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain), and radiculopathy (nerve pain or weakness).
How long does the acute stage of Lyme disease last?
The acute stage of Lyme disease typically lasts for a few weeks. However, if left untreated, the infection can progress to the chronic stage.
What are the symptoms of chronic Lyme disease?
Chronic Lyme Disease is a condition that occurs when Lyme disease symptoms persist for an extended period, typically beyond six months, despite receiving appropriate treatment during the early stages. Common symptoms of chronic Lyme disease can be diverse and vary among individuals. Chronic Lyme disease, also known as post-treatment Lyme disease syndrome (PTLDS), may present with various symptoms, including:
Fatigue: Profound exhaustion and lack of energy.
Musculoskeletal pain: Joint pain, muscle aches, and swelling.
Neurological issues: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, tingling or numbness in hands or feet, and sleep disturbances.
Mood and cognitive disturbances: Depression, anxiety, brain fog, and difficulty with decision-making.
Other symptoms: Headaches, dizziness, heart palpitations, and vision changes.
How long does chronic Lyme disease last?
The initial infection of Lyme disease, caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi. While acute Lyme disease is characterized by early signs like fever, fatigue, and a characteristic rash, Chronic Lyme Disease's symptoms can manifest in diverse and variable ways, often involving the nervous system, joints, and organs. These symptoms may include severe fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, cognitive impairment, and neurological disturbances.
Can Lyme disease symptoms overlap with other medical conditions?
It is important to note that chronic Lyme Disease is a controversial diagnosis, and symptoms may overlap with other medical conditions. If chronic Lyme Disease is suspected, individuals should seek consultation with a healthcare professional experienced in managing the complexities of this condition to obtain a thorough evaluation and appropriate care.
Are there additional symptoms associated with Lyme disease?
In addition to the commonly known symptoms, Lyme disease can also manifest as:
Cardiac symptoms: Heart palpitations, chest pain, and shortness of breath in some cases of Lyme carditis.
Eye problems: Redness, sensitivity to light, and changes in vision.
Digestive issues: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements.
Can Lyme disease symptoms come and go?
Yes, Lyme disease symptoms can fluctuate, with periods of improvement followed by symptom flare-ups. This waxing and waning pattern is commonly observed in chronic Lyme disease and can make management and treatment more challenging.
When should I seek medical attention for Lyme disease symptoms?
If you suspect you may have Chronic Lyme Disease, it is crucial to seek a thorough medical evaluation from a qualified healthcare provider. Chronic Lyme Disease is a complex and controversial condition that can present with a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, neurological issues, and more.
Consult your primary care physician or find a Lyme-literate medical doctor (LLMD) who specializes in diagnosing and treating Lyme Disease. LLMDs are knowledgeable about the complexities of this condition and can offer more comprehensive evaluations. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent the progression of the disease and potential long-term complications.
Due to the challenges associated with diagnosing Chronic Lyme Disease accurately, it is essential to consider advanced testing options. Standard tests for Lyme Disease may yield false negatives, especially in the case of long-standing infections. Advanced testing methods, such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing, Western blot assays, and specialty laboratories, may provide more accurate results.
Lyme-literate medical doctors (LLMDs) are familiar with these advanced testing techniques and can guide patients in selecting the most appropriate tests. Remember that accurate diagnosis is the foundation for effective treatment and better outcomes for individuals with Chronic Lyme Disease. If you suspect Lyme Disease, seek out a qualified healthcare professional with expertise in this complex condition.
What is the treatment for Lyme Disease?
Treatment approaches for chronic Lyme disease symptoms vary depending on individual cases, and there is ongoing debate within the medical community. Some conventional methods include extended courses of antibiotics, such as doxycycline or amoxicillin, to target the Lyme bacteria. However, evidence for their long-term efficacy is limited, and prolonged antibiotic use may lead to complications.
Alternative treatments like herbal supplements, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and immune-boosting therapies have been explored, but their effectiveness remains inconclusive. Additionally, managing symptoms through pain relief, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy can improve quality of life.
Holistic approaches addressing diet, stress, and sleep may complement traditional treatments. Collaborating with healthcare providers experienced in treating chronic Lyme disease is essential for a personalized, comprehensive approach, as treatment plans should be tailored to the individual's unique needs and symptoms. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to address changes in the condition.
Can Lyme disease cause long-term complications?
If left untreated or inadequately treated, Lyme disease can lead to long-term complications affecting multiple body systems, including the joints, heart, nervous system and cognitive function.