Lyme Disease

What is Lyme Disease

Lyme diseases is caused by the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi, which is transmitted to humans by a deer tick bite, infection, is characterized by erythema migrans. Lyme disease is spread by the bite of the tiny tick, usually no bigger than a pinhead. A flat or slightly raised red lesion appears at the site. The reaction can become quite large, is generally circular in shape, and can show several concentric rings (target pattern). Erythema migrans is often accompanied by flu-like illness with fever, chills, and myalgias. At this stage, laboratory tests are not reliable. Lyme disease is caused when an Ixodes tick passes on the germ known as "Borrelia burgdorferi," while sucking blood from its victim. Lyme disease is most common in rural and suburban areas in the northeastern and midwestern states.

What are the symptoms of Lyme disease?

Symptoms of Lyme disease include

fever,
chills,
headaches,
stiff neck,
fatigue,
muscle aches and
joint pain

How is Lyme disease treated?

Lyme disease is treated with antibiotics. Early Lyme disease responds very well to treatment. The Lyme disease vaccine is now available. There is no certain cure for Lyme disease; it can be effectively treated with antibiotics.