Lyme disease is caused by ticks who are infected with the bacteria, Borrelia burgdorfer. An infected tick carries the bacteria in its blood and spreads the infection when feeding on humans or animals. Symptoms of Lyme disease vary depending on what part of the body is affected, reports the Mayo Clinic. Most cases can be treated with antibiotic therapy, explains the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Most people diagnosed with Lyme disease make a full recovery after treatment. Still, a small percentage of people experience symptoms of the condition months, or years, after treatment.
Rash
The first sign of Lyme disease is a round skin rash referred to as erythema migrans at the site of the tick bite. According to the CDC, up to 80 percent of infected individuals experience the rash; it occurs between three and 30 days after the tick bite has occurred. The rash often begins small in size, but over a period of several days, expands in diameter reaching as much as 12 inches across and continues to redden. As the rash grows, the center may heal, and the area may resemble a bull's-eye with a circular red shape and clear middle area. The rash is warm to touch and tender, but not overly painful.
Flu-Like Symptoms
General flu-like symptoms can be present. Chills, fever, muscle aches and fatigue are common. A person with Lyme disease may simply feel very tired and have general discomfort and uneasiness, reports the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Headaches or pains in the neck or scalp may occur.
Joint Pain
Severe inflammation in the knees, as well as other large joints, is possible, according to the NIH. Joints become extremely swollen and infected several weeks to months after the initial infection. Joint pain associated with Lyme disease is more common if the disease has not been treated. The CDC reports that 60 percent of untreated Lyme disease victims experience intermittent bouts of arthritis.
Neurological and Brain Symptoms
The tissue around the brain may become inflamed causing meningitis. Bell's palsy, a temporary paralysis, or drooping, of one side of the face, can occur. Overall muscle weakness and inability to easily move extremities is common. Five percent of untreated patients experience neurological problems, months to years later, states the CDC; long term effects include shooting numbness, pain, as well as tingling, in the extremities. A person may have difficulty concentrating as well as experience short-term memory issues.
