Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of ticks. The disease is the result of exposure to the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. Deer ticks are the main carriers of the bacteria. The disease is transferred when a deer tick feeds on an animal and then attaches itself to and feeds off of a human.
Being outside in tall grassy areas, on the ground or around animals are a few of the ways a person can be exposed to deer ticks that may be carrying the disease.
The Target
One of the first signs of lyme disease is what is known as the "target." It starts with a small bump and within a few days begins to expand outward in a circle, similar to a bull's-eye or target. It can be in close proximity to the area of the bite, near the groin or possibly behind the knee. It may be tender and warm to the touch.
Flu Symptoms
Lyme disease has several symptoms that are similar to those of the flu. Headaches, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting, and body aches may accompany the rash. As the rash spreads, the flu-like symptoms may worsen. These symptoms may come and go along with the severity of the rash.
Joint Pain
If left untreated, lyme disease may spread throughout the body and cause pain and swelling in the joints. The knees may be affected more than other joints, but that does not mean it will be limited to that area. Lyme disease can affect most any area of the body. Pain can progress from mild to severe if left unattended.
Neurological Symptoms
Lyme disease may cause swelling in the lining of the brain and spinal cord, if not diagnosed quickly. It can cause muscle weakness and in some cases, nerve damage. In some cases, paralysis may occur. When lyme disease affects the meninges, or lining that surrounds the brain, memory loss, seizures and coma may be the result.
Miscellaneous Symptoms
Other possible symptoms may include severe fatigue, irregular heartbeat and other neurological disorders. Symptoms may increase in severity as the rash gets bigger or forms more of a "target" on the skin. As the rash gets worse, more symptoms may arise. A physician should be consulted immediately if Lyme disease is suspected.
